Galatians 6:9-10
"[Do] not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Do you ever feel like you're the only one working hard or striving? Are you ever frustrated because you think some just don't "get it" and you're wasting your time. My daughter, Megan, was discouraged her first year in college. She had grown up in Christian schools and was in her first year at Baylor. The dorm life was not what she expected at a "Baptist" university. She called in despair at her struggles in finding friends who shared her values.
In 1 Kings 19:9-18, Elijah was running for his life and expressed his discouragement to God, "I am the only one left." It's a bit humorous as we read it. Yet, how often do we feel that way. God responded by showing his power and by providing Elijah with an apprentice who became a great help to him, Elisha. In my daughter's case, she was pointed to a sororiety with several Christian sisters who became her friends.
Hang in there! Let God know your frustrations or discouragement. He will provide a way for you to get through it. The passage in Galatians is both an encouragement and a challenge. I believe this tells us that we can overcome the weariness when we focus on doing good to others. Take the opportunity to love others in word and deed. God will use this to help you through your rough times.
Now, I need to go practice this myself. I was feeling a little down this morning. God bless.
Russ Holt
Russ and Patty
About Me
- Russ
- It is my mission in life to experience sustaining joy by living an abundant life spiritually, industrially, socially, and financially. Key words: Passion, integrity. Married to Patty May 30, 1981. We have 3 children who are now young adults with children of their own: Ryan and his wife Jill (daughters Charley and Collins); Megan and her husband Sanchez (sons Micah and Julian), and Michael and his wife Rachel (son Caleb). Retired July 2006 after 23 years in the computing industry; entered the ministry to serve the local church. 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 KJV
2 comments:
Just found your blog, Russ, and read your post on discouragement and it was very encouraging, so thank you. My wife and I started a ministry at HCBC to focus on orphan care and it feels like we take two steps forward and three steps back many days. But your post was encouraging. We're not called to success, we're called to obedience and we're doing that. We have Beth Guckenberger in town this weekend to talk about her new book Reckless Faith. We've been taking groups down to Monterrey to work alongside them serving the fatherless of Monterrey. It was a great night. Hope you're well.
bruceericatdell (http://bruceeric.wordpress.com)
Hello Bruce. Thanks for commenting. We miss HCBC, but really feel God's call for us here in SC and at Gateway. We've had numerous divine appointments affirming us.
The discouragement still often sets in, however and I have to be reminded of God's call and presence.
It's awesome to hear about your ministry at HCBC. James (1:27) tells us that caring for the orphans is "pure" religion. God bless you.
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