North Bend Church of Christ - Discussion Forum: "Encouragement" Written by Norm Russell in 2015

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North Bend Church of Christ » The Church of Christ » Devotionals From All Over

"Encouragement" Written by Norm Russell in 2015

Mark
#1

Posted on 03/21/2024 18:33

Super Administrator

Posts: 223
Joined: 08/07/2011 13:16

The early Christians became discouraged and were seriously considering going back into Judaism where life would be more simple and less stressful. Those Hebrew Christians needed something to help them face their difficulties and thus the letter to the Hebrews was penned. We do not know who wrote it, only that the author refers to his letter as a "word of exhortation." Hebrews 13:22.

When people are down and discouragement surfaces, they need someone to come along side them and give them a word of encouragement. They do not need to hear words that drive them deeper into the pits of despair.

In a time of national despair, people go to church to hear words of hope and encouragement. Focusing our attention on what God has done in us, through us, and for us will lift the spirits of those whose world is seemingly falling apart. God is in the business of joy not pessimism. When Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians, he focused much of his letter on being joyful. Even though the apostle was in prison in Rome, waiting for his audience with the emperor, he found reasons to be joyful.

Look carefully at Philippians 1:12-18: "12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice"

All of us have reason to be joyful, even those who are having to deal with issues that cause serious difficulty for us. I want to encourage each of us to begin counting our many blessings and to put what aches and pains we might have in perspective. We need to continue praying for folks who are experiencing physical as well as faith problems. We need to come along side of those who find themselves unable to enjoy the rising sun of a new day and give them encouragement. In so doing we lift their spirits and help them see the blessings God has showered upon them.

Please come and worship with us Sunday, and remember: EVERYONE is welcome here.

Norm Russell
|
Posted for the author by:
Mark R. Magill
System Administrator

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"Encouragement" Written by Norm Russell in 2015
Mark	#1 Posted on 03/21/2024 18:33
Super Administrator Posts: 223 Joined: 08/07/2011 13:16	The early Christians became discouraged and were seriously considering going back into Judaism where life would be more simple and less stressful. Those Hebrew Christians needed something to help them face their difficulties and thus the letter to the Hebrews was penned. We do not know who wrote it, only that the author refers to his letter as a "word of exhortation." Hebrews 13:22. When people are down and discouragement surfaces, they need someone to come along side them and give them a word of encouragement. They do not need to hear words that drive them deeper into the pits of despair. In a time of national despair, people go to church to hear words of hope and encouragement. Focusing our attention on what God has done in us, through us, and for us will lift the spirits of those whose world is seemingly falling apart. God is in the business of joy not pessimism. When Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians, he focused much of his letter on being joyful. Even though the apostle was in prison in Rome, waiting for his audience with the emperor, he found reasons to be joyful. Look carefully at Philippians 1:12-18: "12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice" All of us have reason to be joyful, even those who are having to deal with issues that cause serious difficulty for us. I want to encourage each of us to begin counting our many blessings and to put what aches and pains we might have in perspective. We need to continue praying for folks who are experiencing physical as well as faith problems. We need to come along side of those who find themselves unable to enjoy the rising sun of a new day and give them encouragement. In so doing we lift their spirits and help them see the blessings God has showered upon them. Please come and worship with us Sunday, and remember: EVERYONE is welcome here. Norm Russell \| Posted for the author by: Mark R. Magill System Administrator