Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Do Not Be Discouraged
Psalms 103: 1-13

Christine Tom
St. James MTC,  NY
4 .who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, 5. who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
 
How often do we feel alone and discouraged, like the world is bearing down on us? How often do we look for answers from God as to why we are endure such suffering? Do we question God as why He has punished us in such a way? When we go through times of trouble, the most important question to ask ourselves is how often do we thank God for all that He has done?
 
Psalms 103 is a call for praise as verse 1-2 says “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits”.  Instead of dwelling on our losses, we should remember all the great blessings God has showered upon our lives, especially in times of discouragement. Though we may come to times when we think we are on our own, we must remember that we have found favor in God’s presence. “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love” (Psalms 103:8). Though we may suffer at times, we must remember that sometimes it may be part of God’s plan for us. God knows what is best for us and we must praise Him and fear Him all of our days as He is loving and forgiving. Verse 13 says, “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.” God will be there for us in times of struggle if  we put our faith in Him and trust Him at all times. In times of trials and temptations He will give us strength to move forward. God has chosen to use us and has provided us with the necessary skills  to fulfill His many plans in this world.

PRAYER


Lord, You know our hearts and You have chosen us. Guide us closer to You and help us to find strength and courage in You in all the days of our lives. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Prov. 3:5-6

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