Nowadays, the Body of Christ is in crisis as thieves have polluted many churches around the world. Today, let’s talk about one of those thieves: discouragement! My brother, my sister, discouragement is a thief. Yes, it steals our vitality, our zeal, our joy, our peace and our stability. The problem is that as soon as you start being discouraged, its friends soon join in: fatigue, hopelessness, despair, self-pity, depression, doubt or bitterness. Sometimes, discouragement is so strong that people think life is no longer worth living, as it brings along dissatisfaction with the past, distaste for the present, and distrust of the future. My friend, discouragement is the result of blindness. If you feel discouraged today, it is because you do not know our Lord, the One who never abandon His children. Besides, your discouragement is a sign of your ingratitude for the blessings of yesterday, your indifference to the opportunities He is giving you today, and your insecurity regarding His promises and strength for tomorrow. Are you really aware of the presence of God in your life? Then you should not feel discouraged, but rather stick to the promises of His Word. Even if your life is tiring, you are struggling with your sin; when family members are not saved or you are feeling persecuted; when bills remain unpaid despite your hard work; when your health is failing or when your loved ones are hurt; even when the future seems unsure, “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). As a Christian, you don’t have to weep everyday: Jesus is there to lift you up, the Word of God is there to teach you and the Holy Spirit dwelling in you is there to warm and comfort your soul. Yes, my friend, you have the God of encouragement waiting to show you His mercy and love today. But all you need to do is trust Him, remember the Lord’s blessings, depend on Him, and above all keep your eyes on Jesus and Him alone, for He said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Stay blessed in Jesus’ name.
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