Dependence in Disappointment

Some days are very difficult days, and the encouragement of others is a huge refreshment. Maybe you received some disappointing news or a plan of yours seemed thwarted. Maybe you seem to have been juggling a bunch of balls for a while and then they started falling to the ground. It is days like this that a good friend to talk with, to pray with you, and to encourage you is a valuable jewel. It is also days like this that maybe a trusted devotional that you have gone to over time catches your eyes and your heart and it gives you cause to pause and be refreshed.

For the past week I have not included a section from “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young in my posts. While not sharing it, I have continued to look at it as I have for the past eighteen months, just as others have faithfully opened to things such as The Daily Bread, The Word for Today, and so many other valuable resources over the years as tools of biblical encouragement. But today as I opened my devotional I was really hoping to be encouraged, and what I was reminded of is that even in the face of worldly disappointments that God is bigger than them and He will make me to stand such that in Him I will not be disappointed.

Today in “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (11/14)

Bask in the luxury of being fully understood and unconditionally loved. Dare to see yourself as I see you: radiant in My righteousness, cleansed by My blood. I view you as the one I created you to be, the one you will be in actuality when heaven becomes your home. It is My Life within you that is changing you from glory to glory. Rejoice in this mysterious miracle! Thank Me continually for the amazing gift of My Spirit within you.

Try to depend on the help of the Spirit as you go through this day of life. Pause briefly from time to time so you can consult with this Holy One inside you. He will not force you to do his bidding, but He will guide you as you give Him space in your life. Walk along this wondrous way of collaboration with My Spirit.

“Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” (Psalm 34:5, ESV)

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, ESV)

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

“If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25, ESV)