“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 15:4-6)
As I walk this oh-so-challenging path, I realize that two of the things I often need are endurance and encouragement. I find it interesting that the above two scriptures link the two together. I’m not sure I ever really noticed that before. I started pondering on the fact that these two verses are pretty explicit as to where we find endurance and encouragement . . .and the outcome of the two? Hope!
When I read that the Scriptures teach us endurance, I realize it is something that can be learned. Perhaps, it must be learned. Who is our teacher? God Himself.
And encouragement? We are encouraged by Scripture as it provides hope. Once again, that encouragement originates in God.
We can also find encouragement in the lives of other believers. Whether we read, hear, or witness God at work, we can be encouraged that God is teaching us as well. God may be using them to teach us the very qualities we need.
And we never know who is watching our lives. Perhaps we are going through trials that will encourage others to keep on keeping on – to have hope. I don’t think we can underestimate the effect our lives have on others even when we feel completely useless on our journey.
Read.
Listen.
Watch.
And realize you may the beacon of light in the darkness that will throw light upon the path of another.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the provisions You have made for us. Thank you for Your words to us and for the way You work in the lives of those around us so that we may be encouraged and find endurance at the times we need it most. Amen.
About the Author:
deni weber believes that the only true way to deal with chronic challenges is to bring them to the feet of her Lord and Savior. Her challenges have taught her many things about herself and her Christian walk. It is her fondest desire that her lessons may be helpful to others as they walk the path of chronic illness. Her website is http://www.pathwaysforchange.com/Encouragement – deni can be reached at encouragingwords@me.com .
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 