A life reality is there are difficulties that are experienced. Jesus was clear with His disciples regarding some of the things they would face (John 15:18; 16:1-4 & 33), and Peter told his readers to not be surprised by fiery trials they would experience. (1 Peter 4:12) What do we do when going through discouraging moments? Where do we focus to keep them from dragging us down?
Someone has said, “Don’t allow the discouragement of the moment to ruin your hope for tomorrow.” (original source unknown)
First of all, let us remember, compared to a lifetime, our varied life experiences are but for a moment. And looking back at our life, realizing we have moved through such moments before, let us look ahead to doing it again. It is beyond the moment of discouragement we need to look rather than allowing the moment either to define our life or our ultimate destiny.
Note Paul’s perspective as expressed in his second letter to Christians at Corinth where we read. . .
“(8) For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. (9) Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. (10) He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. (11) You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.” (2 Corinthians 1:8-11 ESV)
Despite the severity of the trials Paul and those with him had experienced — even to the threat of their lives — the focus remained with God. Rather than looking to reliance on themselves, their focus was lifted to the Great Deliverer and reliance on Him! That is where their faith rested. Hope was not lost but was embraced through it all! And in pressing on, Paul requested the strengthening support of prayers on their behalf.
May we focus similarly — regardless of what we face — and so nurture a mindset of resilience for pressing on as our faith, hope, and reliance continue resting with God!
Have a great day MOVING THROUGH EACH MOMENT WITH TRUST IN GOD!
Carl
