Encouragement!

Encouragement!  Life and ministry run on encouragement!  Sharing with our District School of Ministry leaders last night at the District Ministry Center we looked at Hebrews 12.  First we are to run with “endurance” the race set before us. vs. 1.  If it wasn’t a difficult or challenging race there would be no need to endure.  It would instead be “a walk in the park.”  But we are encouraged to endure in our race as we are surrounded by a company of witnesses or should we say “cheer leaders” encouraging us on.   I am so grateful for the encouragement of others.  Although we don’t live for others praise, it sure helps to know that you aare appreciated and loved!  Jesus is our example and is to be the object of our attention “lest we become weary and discouraged. . . ” vs.3   He was up against it with those who were hostile towards Him all that He came to do.  No shock that we can face similar opposition.  It’s encouraging to know we are in good company with the Lord Jesus.

We are called to understand that correction from the Lord is an encouraging thing, not discouraging. vs. 5-6    The correction of the Lord is an indication of His love for us and His support of our ministry and call.  The one He loves He corrects!  Feedback is vital if I am going to improve my “serve.”  If I can’t receive instruction I am doomed to stay the same.  That’s just plain scarry!  A little loving correction can go a long way.  When we are weary or exhausted, we are encouraged to “strengthen the hands that hang down and the feeble knees.”  In all of this we are to be ENCOURAGED!

The end of Hebrews wraps it up this way, “. . . we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably.”  Be encouraged!

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