In Romans 15:4 I read, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” (NIV)
If I’m feeling down and need a mood swing, put down the comfort foods and don’t have a pity party. Instead pick up God’s Word. When I’m feeling discouraged, I don’t need a coffee break. I need a Word break!
God gave us the Bible to encourage us. One way I can think of the Bible is as a mood elevator.
The Bible says in Romans 15:4, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (NIV).
In taking a closer look, there are four words that stand out: “everything,” “Scriptures,” “encouragement,” and “hope.” What do these mean? Everything in the Scriptures is for my encouragement and hope.
That’s a big statement—but it’s true! Even the tough parts of God’s Word ultimately are there to encourage my life in the right direction.
That’s why I need to continue to spend time alone with God every single day. No matter what I call it—daily devotional, quiet time, Bible study—I need to get alone with God, read his Word, and talk to him.
The Bible says in Psalm 119:114, “You’re my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your Word to renew me” (MSG).
So when I’m discouraged and feel as if I have lost hope, there is one thing that is probably true: I need to spend time in God’s Word. The more I read God’s Word when I’m down, the more he lifts me up. No matter how I’m feeling, I need to read God’s Word. It is essential for my life!
Next time I feel discouraged, don’t go home and turn on the television. Instead, open God’s Word, the Bible and read it.
God’s Word will give me true encouragement and hope, because it has God’s power in it. It is the only thing that has the power to change my life!
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