Encouragement: The Fuel of HopeSample

Where will you find encouragement?

Albert Einstein once said: “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”

These are interesting words because at the heart of them is this question; where do you find encouragement?

The encouragement we find in the midst of a crisis does not come from the crisis. It comes from how we see and react to the crisis. Difficulties will crush some people, while others are strengthened and push forward to reach the goals in their life.

What is it about those who lift and move on to bigger and better things, overcoming the difficulties to find the opportunity in the midst of difficulties?

It is hope and encouragement. They do not focus on the struggles, difficulties, problems, and crises that they are facing. Instead, they ignore those things and look to a better outcome, a stronger future, and a path to resolution and salvation.

As Christians, we know these things. We know that difficulties are part of the journey. We know that God said He disciplines those whom He loves, so that even when we are suffering discipline, we can be encouraged that it is for our betterment because God loves us.

So, where do we find this encouragement?

We find it in the presence of God and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Consider the many times in Psalms when King David spoke of the encouragement, hope, and peace he found in the house of God and in His presence.

We are encouraged in the words of the Bible, because in those words is the wisdom of God, given to help us find life. We are encouraged in the words of prophecy, because in those words God is foretelling what is to come so that we will not be in the dark. We are encouraged when we meet together because we can share the wondrous works of God and how He is working in our lives. And we are encouraged by those who walked before us as we have an example of the true faith and love in their lives.

There are many places and ways that we can find encouragement, but all of them point back to a single source. The true source of all encouragement is in Jesus Christ our Savior. And if Christ is for you, no-one can rise up to separate you from the love of God.

Call to action:

Seek the places, people, and examples where or to whom you can go to find encouragement. Be one who encourages those around you, as we all need encouragement to stand in these evil days.