We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; we are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed.
- 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
All of us become disappointed when we have a plan that fails, a hope that does not materialize, a goal that is unreached. When things like that happen, for a certain period of time we experience a letdown, one that can lead to depression if it is not handled properly.
That's when we have to make the decision to adapt and adjust, to take a new approach, to just keep going despite our feelings. That's when we must remember that we have the Greater One residing within us, so that no matter what may happen to frustrate us, or how long it may take for our dreams and goals to become reality, we are not going to give up and quit just because of our emotions. That is when we must remember what God once told me in just such a moment: "When you get disappointed, you can always make the decision to get reappointed!"
Disappointment often leads to discouragement, which is even more of a "downer." How disappointing and discouraging it is to see the things we love senselessly destroyed by others or, even worse, by our own neglect or failure. Regardless of how it may happen or who may be responsible, it is hard to go on when everything we have counted on falls down around us. That's when those of us who have the creative power of the Holy Spirit on the inside can get a new vision, a new direction, and a new goal to help us overcome the downward pull of disappointment, discouragement, and destruction.
The Tragic Absence of Faith
by Dr. Paul Chappell
“I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:8
One day, perhaps very soon, Jesus will return to this world. And while He was with His disciples, He told us what He would be looking for on His return—faith. It is impossible to overstate the importance of faith in our lives. It is the fundamental essential for everything in Christianity. We are saved by faith. We walk by faith. We obey by faith. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).
Yet the question that Jesus asked about finding faith carries a definite negative connotation in its construction. The way He asked it reveals that in most cases He expects the answer to be, “No.” It is tragic that so many of God’s children live solely in their own strength and resources rather than relying on God and obeying His Word. Faith brings us into alignment with God’s purpose and plan for our lives, because true faith is always based on what He says.
Why do so few have faith? While there are many reasons, the fundamental problem is that we do not treat the Bible as we should. It is the source and foundation of our faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). If we are to be the exceptions to the negative expectation, if we are to be the people who will be found faithful when the Lord returns, then we must be people of the Bible. When God’s Word fills our hearts, our thoughts, and our mouths, we will live faithfully in accord with what it teaches.
Luke 18:8
One day, perhaps very soon, Jesus will return to this world. And while He was with His disciples, He told us what He would be looking for on His return—faith. It is impossible to overstate the importance of faith in our lives. It is the fundamental essential for everything in Christianity. We are saved by faith. We walk by faith. We obey by faith. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6).
Yet the question that Jesus asked about finding faith carries a definite negative connotation in its construction. The way He asked it reveals that in most cases He expects the answer to be, “No.” It is tragic that so many of God’s children live solely in their own strength and resources rather than relying on God and obeying His Word. Faith brings us into alignment with God’s purpose and plan for our lives, because true faith is always based on what He says.
Why do so few have faith? While there are many reasons, the fundamental problem is that we do not treat the Bible as we should. It is the source and foundation of our faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17). If we are to be the exceptions to the negative expectation, if we are to be the people who will be found faithful when the Lord returns, then we must be people of the Bible. When God’s Word fills our hearts, our thoughts, and our mouths, we will live faithfully in accord with what it teaches.
Today’s Growth Principle:
If our lives are not filled with faith, they will not be pleasing to Jesus upon His return.
Get Reappointed
by Joyce Meyer - posted August 07, 2016We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; we are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed.
- 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
All of us become disappointed when we have a plan that fails, a hope that does not materialize, a goal that is unreached. When things like that happen, for a certain period of time we experience a letdown, one that can lead to depression if it is not handled properly.
That's when we have to make the decision to adapt and adjust, to take a new approach, to just keep going despite our feelings. That's when we must remember that we have the Greater One residing within us, so that no matter what may happen to frustrate us, or how long it may take for our dreams and goals to become reality, we are not going to give up and quit just because of our emotions. That is when we must remember what God once told me in just such a moment: "When you get disappointed, you can always make the decision to get reappointed!"
Disappointment often leads to discouragement, which is even more of a "downer." How disappointing and discouraging it is to see the things we love senselessly destroyed by others or, even worse, by our own neglect or failure. Regardless of how it may happen or who may be responsible, it is hard to go on when everything we have counted on falls down around us. That's when those of us who have the creative power of the Holy Spirit on the inside can get a new vision, a new direction, and a new goal to help us overcome the downward pull of disappointment, discouragement, and destruction.
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