I don't think I am one that is easily discouraged but today happens to be one of those days. I hate it. When discouragement sneaks in it seems to grow and spread to many other areas in my life. I begin to doubt and question so many things. Things that I was so confident in yesterday, or even this morning, I am now feeling insecure about. Things that I believed in I am now suddenly doubting. If I let this continue I would just quit and cash in my chips. God is helping me through it. He had me stumble across this...
The devil, according to legend, once advertised his tools for sale at public auction. When the prospective buyers assembled, there was one oddly shaped tool which was labeled "Not for sale." Asked to explain why this was, the devil answered, "I can spare my other tools, but I cannot spare this one. It is the most useful implement that I have. It is called Discouragement, and with it I can work my way into hearts otherwise inaccessible. When I get this tool into a man's heart, the way is open to plant anything I want in there."
So corny but so true. He then had a couple brothers send me some much needed words via text message. I am grateful for God and His timing and His words sent through a book or through a cell phone.
I am coming to realize that discouragement is often nothing more than a loss of perspective. If the proper perspective is restored you can take a new heart. I believe my discouragement was rooted in insecurity, unbelief, impatience, and immaturity. Yep, that is hard to say but I believe it to be true. Thank you Lord for the gift of a new perspective.
9 comments:
If one person was affected, and everyone else was bored to tears, it was worth it.
We all feel that way from time to time but as Ethan said if just one person was affected and their life was changed it was worth it! You are right it is a powerful tool of the enemy we don't want to buy into and so many times I fell for it!
Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
I often feel most discouraged after having a great success in life or ministry, because usually the work that goes into great successes wears me out. When I'm tired, I'm more easily discouraged.
Ethan,
Yeah there was at least one. Me.
Tanya,
Yep and Amen. A good word.
Jeff,
Tired? Yeah nailed that one on the head.
Kenny, you could just stand there and eat a sandwich and you would be an encouragement to my son! This little tip might help you in your christian life. It is what I do. When I start to believe the lies that the father of lies is telling me (that wasnt very good, no one is listening to you, no one cares about you, I cant do anything right, etc), I physically take my hand and put it on my shoulder and flick that evil little devil off my shoulder that is wispering lies in my ear. Instead of just talking to yourself in your head, it helps to do the motions and sets you straight to go again. I love you and pray for you and your family that God would be the clearest voice you hear and His light would be easily seen through you. The Long family sees it. One of the founding fathers said "the truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable". The truth you were giving those people might have to make them miserable for a while, otherwise we would just stay in the place we are. Blessings! Sid
Wow Sid! Those are some encouraging words right there! Thank you so much.
Just wanted to let you know that God's word was delivered powerfully through you to me... I found it both convicting and affirming. Just what I needed! It has been bouncing around in my head for days now. But, more importantly, it's affecting my heart.
Any time we take a stand for the Kingdom we can expect some retaliation from the prince of darkness. Just remind Satan he's a liar and has been defeated by our awesome and mighty Savior! Thanks for being God's mighty warrior and bringing it... real and uncensored... like Jesus!! Luv ya Bro!!
And another thing... as a wise man once said... we have the keys!! Praise God for those keys... & for that wise man :)
Clay,
So glad God spoke to you and that He continues to. Amen, Amen, and Amen! Love you to bro. Love that guy from across the pond too.
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