ENCOURAGEMENT

Even the strongest of Christians may suffer bouts of uncertainty as they witness the pervasive onslaught of evil associated with these 'last days'. We are daily bombarded with news of egregious acts of violence, shameless gender manipulation, and a liberal agenda that seeks to strip us of our freedoms. 

It can be difficult to brave the darkness as we wait for Jesus' return. 

When a brother in Christ is distracted by this world's calamitous noise and fearful of the ever-encroaching depravity of man, we are to be 'agents of grace' ... encouraging him to focus his attention on the promises of God. 

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.  Romans 15:4

Admonition, instruction, exhortation ... the Bible is a reliable source of comfort when facing affliction. We can read of unyielding confidence in God through the stories of Job, Daniel, and David. The Lord's faithfulness is revealed time and time again throughout Scripture. 

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

As we minister to others, it is good to remind ourselves that Jesus Christ is the 'Great I Am', the 'Alpha and Omega', the 'Prince of Peace'. Nothing escapes His purview as we navigate this fallen world. 

He gave us these words ...

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

The Savior's plan for the church is to complete the task at hand. As we anxiously await His appearing, our lives are being transformed in order to prepare us for that day.

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Philippians 1:6 

The victory is already won ... share that message with those who are struggling.