The world has taken a swing, and life can get pretty difficult at times. Even followers of Jesus Christ can be discouraged and wonder if it is too hard to go on.
One morning my devotions challenged me: “If you have run with the footmen, and they have wearied you, Then how can you contend with horses? And if in the land of peace, In which you trusted, they wearied you, Then how will you do in the floodplain of the Jordan?” (Jeremiah 12:5 NKJV)
The message was loud and clear. We have been so comfortable, and we still complained. Now life has become more complicated and difficult, but in reality, this is nothing compared to our brothers and sisters in other countries that are being martyred for following Jesus. If we do not change our viewpoint we will not be able to handle what is still to come.
Jesus warned us as well. “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NKJV)
Jesus does not leave us on our own He echoes the words of the Father.
“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NKJV)
“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord , The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:28-31 NKJV)
“For I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.” (Jeremiah 31:25 NKJV)
If you are currently discouraged and wondering if the effort required in being a disciple of Jesus is worth it, I have a recommendation for you. Spend some time with Jesus. Pour out your heart, and express to Him your worries, fears, failures. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV)
Our God will restore us if we come to Him. He is always willing and available, but we still need to decide to continue, just like Paul encourages us. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9 NKJV)