Be encouraged: This is not your ‘forever’

Years ago, when I was in and out of mental hospitals, Millie, a kind nurse, cared for me. When I was discharged after a nine-month stay, she and her husband, Paul, reached out and encouraged me to begin memorizing God’s Word.
During this very difficult season of my life, I began writing verses on index cards – and fell in love with God on a deeper and deeper level.
I also grew to love God’s Word!
Scripture calmed me. It gave me peace and hope. Eventually, it gave me stability. The more I recognized how holy, righteous and wise God was, the more I trusted His sovereignty (His ultimate control over my life).
Are you in the middle of a spiritual battle or a difficult trial?
Be encouraged: This is not your “forever,” even though it feels like it is.
When I spent those years in and out of mental hospitals (I was even told by professionals that I’d never get better), I felt as if my life would never change. Like I was stuck in a “forever” situation.
When we, or someone we’re praying for, are in that “forever” spot, something happens when we pray as if we truly believe God’s Word. That He is powerful. Good. Wise. Holy. Sovereign. And that this powerful, good, wise, holy, sovereign God … loves … us. And loves the people on our prayer list.
Proverbs 9:10 (ESV) says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”
Pause for a moment and imagine life for those who don’t know Christ…those who don’t fear God. They have no anchor for truth, wisdom or hope.
How does this perspective deepen your gratitude for God’s Word? His sovereignty?
Consider how a reverent fear of God protects us. The fear of God is the beginning of – the starting point – of knowing right from wrong. Growing in the knowledge of God provides the insight we need in our “forever” situation.
After I came to revere and know God on a deeper level, I was better able to submit my life, my will and even my emotions to a loving, holy, wise and sovereign God … and was set free from major depression.
Let’s pray: Every time we read Your Word, Lord, whenever we enter into worship, every time we pray … may we picture ourselves at Your throne of grace, kneeling, fully aware of Your goodness, Your majesty, Your sovereignty … present and intervening in our “forever” situation.

Sheryl H. Boldt is a sales executive for Wave 94 and author of the blog, TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at SherylHBoldt.Wave94@gmail.com.