Friend, You Are Rescued

I know what it’s like to be discouraged.

I’m guessing we’ve all experienced it.

discouraged ::  downcast; beat-down; disheartened; dismayed

Life is chocked-full with a myriad of causes. Some we can control. Some we cannot. Some stem from disappointments, mistakes, or disasters. Some emerge from set backs, obstacles, or misunderstandings. Some appear to come from nowhere. Some are more difficult than others. All are unpleasant. All are a part of life.

We have two choices when we’re discouraged.

We can either allow the discouragement to sink us lower, or we can look for the hand of God to lift us out, and be rescued.

The Lord is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope. The Lord’s people may suffer a lot, but he will always bring them safely through. Psalm 34:18-19 CEV

Our Lord isn’t only the rescuer of our souls, He’s also continually available to rescue us in numerous ways in our daily lives as well… including when we’re discouraged. But if you’re anything like me, sometimes I miss it. Either I’m too busy relying on myself, or I’m looking for another way to be rescued. While discouraged, with my head hung low, I may miss His hand extended to me. Ready to pull me out of the depths, and willing to raise me to hope.

The Eternal sustains all who stumble on their way. For those who are broken down, God is near. He raises them up in hope. Psalm 145:14 VOICE

Are you discouraged today, friend? Are you finding the circumstances of life are bringing you down? Have you received news that has made your heart heavy? Are you weary in the keeping on? Have you been turned down, let down, cast down?

Lift your eyes. Look to the hand extending to you, and allow yourself to be rescued.

You are rescued.

Discouragement doesn’t have to have it’s way in your life or mine.

I’m not going to try to tell you we just need to think positive, or we just need to get busy, or we can conquer discouragement on our own. Speaking from experience, we can’t. Every single time I’ve attempted to combat it in my own strength, it’s either gotten worse or I’ve made a mess of things. On our own we may find temporary relief, but it’s not the lasting answer.

Only when we allow God to stand in the gap between us and discouragement, only when we allow Him to lift us out, can discouragement be completely squelched in your life and mine.

He replaces discouragement with lasting hope.

Be encouraged today, friend. Take Jesus’ hand. And be rescued.

Much love,

Julie

It’s Day 27 of 31 Days #CelebratingWhoYouAre. We know God understands all we walk through in this life. It’s refreshing and comforting to know we’re never walking this path alone. May He encourage your heart today, especially if you’re finding yourself discouraged. (Linking this post with Kelly for #RaRaLinkup and Holly for #TestimonyTuesday.)