WHY WORRY?

People often complain when they are tired, needy, and frustrated, but the Bible gives us plenty for which to praise God. For example, in Psalm 103, we are reminded that God forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems us from death, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires, and intervenes for people who suffer injustice (see Psalm 103:1-22). The best part is that we receive all these blessings without deserving any of them, and God never shows partiality—giving good things to His favorites and leaving out the others.

So, no matter how difficult your circumstances are today, count your blessings—past, present, and future. Keep them in mind when you feel as though you have nothing for which to praise God. If that doesn’t work, remind yourself of what God has done for you by reading this Psalm.

Jesus suffered tremendous humiliation, injustice, and physical pain to do God’s will (Hebrews 12:2-4). Strangers arrested Him for crimes He didn’t commit, beat Him, mocked Him, and spat on Him. Friends deserted Him. His heavenly Father left Him to die alone. He died slowly and painfully in the company of common thieves. He became an offering for our sins (see 2 Corinthians 5:21). That is the price Jesus paid to obey His heavenly Father.

The struggles we endure to follow Jesus are real. It takes energy and commitment to say no to sinful desires, to do good deeds that we don’t want to do, and to discipline ourselves to pray and study God’s Word on a regular basis.

When you feel discouraged in your Christian life, think of Jesus and all He went through to do what God wanted. Then take heart knowing that you can do what God requires of you by His strength and grace. Stay focused on Him.  Blessings!!!

FIX YOUR ATTENTION ON JESUS CHRIST

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS