Finding Strength in Encouragement

Think back to the last time you felt "encouraged" by someone. Or the last time that you were the encourager?

We have been spending our time in devotion for the last few weeks on Paul's writings. We started in Romans and are now working through 2 Timothy. As we know, Paul often encouraged Timothy as a mentor and friend. He starts 2 Timothy with:

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline"  2 Timothy 1:7

Paul knows firsthand the challenges that can come at us in life, a man who was beaten, stoned, incurred difficult journeys and people conflict, ultimately imprisoned, and died for his faith.  Do you think that maybe he knew the value of encouragement?

In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, he writes:

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as you are doing" 1 Thessalonians 5:1

Gentlemen, if we were to do a self-assessment this morning, how would we do in the encouragement department?  Maybe you can't encourage this morning, but you could use some yourself.

Life can throw a lot at us for those who could use some encouragement. This morning, we reflected on a few verses and thought about our Lord and Savior, JESUS.  Jesus knew what it was like to suffer on earth as a man and the sufferings his disciples would endure. Frankly, God knows we will endure every challenge, conflict, or suffering on this earth. In John 16, Jesus encourages the disciples just the night before his crucifixion.

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace.  In this world, you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Guys, we often need encouragement in our lives.  That's ok!  We don't always have to be the "tough" guy who handles everyone on our own without any support!  We know that we certainly appreciate the encouragement we receive from others.

We want to encourage you guys this morning.  Encouragement knowing that this life is temporary, that anything we go through here on earth is just a drop in the buck of glorious eternity with our heavenly father.  Encouragement is needed that each of us is created for a PURPOSE, and God has a plan for us for every minute we are on this planet. The encouragement that GOD LOVES US, and to prove so, he sent his son to suffer and die on the cross for us.

We are praying for you guys this morning that God will meet each of you where you are. We want to thank all of you who have encouraged us. We appreciate you guys.