[250 words]
Many times our “downs” outweigh our “ups.” We may feel we are going uphill all the while being pulled back. We may be hurting because our loved ones are hurting due to health challenges, financial setbacks, or spiritual deprivation. We may spend our mornings, days, or late nights in tears because of the things life is throwing our way. I beg you not to be discouraged. God’s people can hold on to what is in the Bible! The Scriptures teach security of the soul, true inner peace, and blessed assurance.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).
“For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1:12).
“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).
“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end” (Hebrews 6:11).
Our battles can toss us in many painful directions. God gave us a spirit of power because of Who we have placed our belief as we cling to Him with assurance and hope. Please do not be discouraged!
Allen Jones
South Green Street church of Christ
Glasgow, KY