As soon as we face up to the fact that we all struggle at times, the sooner we can help one another along. Satan wants nothing more than to keep us self-focused, thinking that our struggles are unique and that we will never overcome them.
In C.S. Lewis' Screwtape Letters, the elder demon advises the younger demon to keep his man focused on himself and his present circumstances. And to not let him think about more eternal things. When we focus too much on our current situation, it's hard to see beyond the trial. God gently lifts our heads and shows us the bigger picture of His kingdom.
Hebrews 10:19-25 gives us great encouragement. The title of this chapter in my Bible is "A Call to Perseverance". If you are in a season of disappointment, you should turn there now and read it. The writer reminds us that our faith is in God, not ourselves. We should draw near to him.
And finally he writes, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (My emphasis added).
So whatever you're dealing with right now that has knocked the wind out of you, don't give up! God has not given up on you. "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."
-Peace
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