Encouraging Myself in the Lord

I have spent 4 years in the book of Revelation. At first I taught it not by reading commentaries but by looking at the visions John had until I could see them enough to draw them.  Next, I decided that since in the first chapter there is a blessing promised to those who read these prophecies and take them to heart that I would memorize the book. I’ve been working on it for four years. I’m only on the eleventh chapter. 

The key to life that I found through my years in Revelation is this: God has chosen us to be part of a bigger story. The God who is and was and is to come is the author. Our lives can only be understood when we realize that we are part of a story being told. It is the story of LOVE and REDEMPTION. Joy is found when you trust the author to write your part of the story.

The morning of Steve’s surgery I woke up to the words, “ I am the One who goes before you. I will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.” God gave me the grace to not be afraid.

“Do not be afraid or discouraged.” This week I have been struggling not to be discouraged. I’ll be honest. It would be so easy to be slide into depression. I wake up every morning and I encourage myself in the Lord. I offer to Him the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. I anchor my soul in truth.

I’m on a path that I would not have chosen, but I trust my Shepherd. My eyes are regularly bathed by tears. Steve and I pray together daily that our lives will magnify the One who is both the author and the finisher of our faith.