Category: Encouragement

But man dies and is laid away; Indeed he breathes his last And where is he?
‭‭Job‬ ‭14‬:‭10‬

We are born into this world with a limited time on earth, and eventually, each one of us will face the reality of death. Job’s observation reminds us that our days are numbered and that life is both precious and fragile.

Job’s testimony is one of hope and restoration. Through his suffering, he learned valuable lessons about trusting God and the unwavering faithfulness of God. Job clung to the belief that his Redeemer lived and that he would one day see God face to face (Job 19:25-27).

We have an even greater hope. In the New Testament, we find hope in the glorious truth that Jesus Christ conquered death through His resurrection. He gives us eternal life and the assurance that death is not the end but a transition into an everlasting existence in His presence.

Job’s words serve as a call to reflect upon the brevity of our time on earth and to live with a sense of urgency and purpose. Rather than being fearful of our mortality, we can embrace it as a reminder to live fully for God’s glory and to invest in the things that truly matter.

Let’s remember the words of Job and deepen our relationship with God. We find comfort in knowing that our Redeemer lives and that in Him, we are given hope and assurance of everlasting life in heaven. Face today with gratitude and certainty, knowing you were created for more than this mortal life on earth. 

Pray

Lord, thank You for reminding me that life is short and fragile. Help me to embrace each day with urgency and purpose. Give me strength today to face my trials and suffering with joy. Thank You for the victory that I have through Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.

They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus.
‭‭Mark‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

A paralyzed man’s friends went to great lengths to bring him to Jesus for healing. When they encountered obstacles, they didn’t give up; instead, they displayed a faith that moved mountains. This story illustrates the power of faith and determination. 

Jesus was in a crowded house, making it nearly impossible to reach Him. Yet, the friends refused to give up. They were determined to bring him to the Healer. When they couldn’t find a way in, they found a way to overcome the obstacles before them.

The friends’ actions reveal a bold faith. They didn’t let the crowd, the roof, or inconvenience stop them. Their faith propelled them to take extraordinary measures. Their actions demonstrate a faith that goes beyond mere belief; it leads to action that reflects trust in God’s power.

These friends went above and beyond by digging a hole in the roof. Their actions reflect a willingness to inconvenience themselves for the sake of another’s well-being. This selflessness aligns with the heart of Jesus.

Once they opened the roof, the friends lowered the paralyzed man down to Jesus. Their actions reflected a profound trust in Jesus’ ability to heal. They had confidence that Jesus would definitely heal him. 

This story challenges us to examine our own faith. Are we willing to go to great lengths to help those in need? Are we prepared to deal with obstacles and dig through barriers to bring others closer to Jesus?

As you reflect on Mark 2:4, consider the role of faith in your own life. Are there obstacles you’ve encountered that require audacious faith and determined action? Let this story inspire you to approach challenges with a faith that is bold, selfless, and unyielding—a faith that moves mountains and draws you closer to Jesus.

Pray

Lord, teach me to have a determined faith. Help me overcome obstacles and barriers that stand in the way of bringing others closer to You. Give me compassion to care for the needs of others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

For great is Your mercy toward me, And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭86‬:‭13‬

These words from the psalmist invite us to join in the praise of thanksgiving for the mercy and grace that God has extended toward us, His children.

There is an acknowledgment of the greatness of God’s mercy that reminds us that we stand on holy ground when we consider that which we have been rescued and redeemed from. It is a mercy that reaches into our souls, lifting us from death and delivering us into the light of His grace.

We find peace that God’s mercy reaches the darkest corners of our existence. It is a mercy that surpasses our shortcomings, offering redemption and renewal.

Let us anchor our hearts in the assurance of God’s enduring mercy. In the face of trials, let Psalm 86:13 be a a declaration of victory over adversity. For in acknowledging the greatness of His mercy, we find strength, hope, and refuge.

Pray

Lord, I bow before You with a heart of gratitude for the great mercy You have bestowed upon me. Your compassion has rescued me from death, and Your love has delivered my soul. May Your mercy be a guiding light, illuminating my path and filling my life with the brilliance of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.