I have many discouraging thoughts at times. What keeps me hanging in there is that Jesus is my ultimate example. Knowing His love for me and having faith in His sovereignty.

Jesus used scripture when satan was temping Him, we also need to do the same.

“However, I consider my life nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”  Acts 20:24

“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.” Acts 20:28

It doesn’t matter how old or young we are, we will either be an encouragement or discouragement to the people in our lives. We rub off on others, so we need to be careful with the choices we make and how we live our lives because are all accountable for our actions. We can make it more difficult for others if we live our lives in selfish ways.  The decisions we make really do affect others especially through us justifying our own thoughts and actions. Often we don’t feel the need to try to be careful in those areas because the other person doesn’t seem to care. This is how Satan gets a foothold.

I have been encouraged to spend more time with the Lord.  Even though I don’t understand everything, I ask God that He would give me more knowledge for what He wants me to know and do.  He wants us to grow in our faith as we rely on Him and His promises, even though it doesn’t always make sense.

What is so great about our God is that He knows our heart and when we are trying!  He doesn’t condemn us, but rather desires a relationship with us so He can guide us.  When we spend time with Him we will know more of who we are. We see life and others from His point of view.  We can only know more of the truth in life when we spend time alone with Him and are obedient!