A pastor was asked if he ever gets discouraged and wants to quit the ministry. He said, Not all the time – just every Monday.
Satan will tempt you to question your work and its effectiveness. He will tempt you to look at greener pastures instead of the sheep that need you here and now. He will make sure there are hurdles and roadblocks in your path. He may bring people who will try to discourage you.
The Apostle Paul was jailed, beaten 8 times, stoned, shipwrecked 3 times, chased by thieves, Jewish leaders and gentiles, and, suffered hunger, nakedness and cold (2 Cor. 11). Through it all he endured so he could share the Good News of Jesus Christ with as many as possible.
Be encouraged, as Christ empowered and used Paul, so he can empower and use you. We have the same Christ in us, empowering us to endure.
My 9-year-old grandson, Nate, gave to me a handwritten personal note last May as I was saying good bye and heading to the airport. It is pictured here. I keep it on my desk as an encouragement to faithfully trust God every day.
