Despite the many letdowns, betrayals, fears,
disappointments, hurts, pains, and losses we experienced in 2016, we are not alone
nor are we forgotten. Our hope is in the LORD.
The Word of God says that in our suffering the power of God
is with us because Jesus Christ is in us – “We
are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are
perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted
down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not
destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4: 8-9
Our Farther knows what we are going through and that we need
hope and encouragement. He provides both to us directly as well as through each
other. We are told to encourage each
other and build each other up (1
Thessalonians 5:11); and for those of us who
are stronger (we) must show extra consideration for our weaker brother and
sister in Christ (Romans 15:1).
A child of God should never be ashamed to accept comfort nor to ask for it. God’s children are to “Share
each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
In 2
Corinthians 1: 3 -4 we read, “All
praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father
and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we
can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the
same comfort God has given us.”
A few encouraging words spoken at the
right time can improve the attitude of someone who is down, or influence
someone to do better or try harder, or not give up on something that is
difficult for them. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging… Romans
12:8. Call, send a text, or e-mail, or a note.
Or we can and should pray – for ourselves, for those we know
personally, for problems that affect the world and our Nation. We don’t have to
know every detail, God knows all; He asks only that we care about the plight of
others as we do our own.
We pray in Jesus Name; we pray with sincerity and faith;
we ask the Holy Spirit of all truth to guide our minds and thoughts as we pray.
We “Do not put your
trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. When their spirit departs,
they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.” Psalm 146:3-4
We trust only in God. We listen to His voice and do His
will because “The voice of the LORD is
powerful...” Psalm 29:4
Then with boldness – “For
God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and
self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7),
we march into 2017 believing in all our Father’s promises and keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who
initiates and perfects our faith.
Hebrews 12:2
Prayer and Thanksgiving: Holy Father, all honor, glory and power belong to
you! You are a good, good Father, a God of compassion and grace. You invite us
to cast all of our burdens and cares on you because you care for us and can
deliver us. You hear our every groan and you answer and send us comfort and
encouragement. You strengthen weak knees and lift up arms that hang down in
despair. You remind us to have no fear because you are our God, Mighty and
Sovereign, and we are your children and the sheep in your pasture. Teach us to
know your voice so we will not stray far from you. You are our shield in battle
and our light in darkness. Thank you for your WORD that nourishes our soul and the
promises in them that never fail. All dominion and power belong to you for ever
and ever; we pray and ask all things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Always by God’s Word and prayer,
Cecile
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