Encouraged

This evening I had the privilege of preaching on the subject of encouragement. The crowd was small, but I believe we all agreed that discouragement is a great tool of Satan. Discouragement becomes a shackle on our spirit that drags us into despair, murmuring and complaining, and generally leads to a negative mind set. Satan continues the onslaught until we make the choice to look up and be encouraged by the truth of who Jesus is, what He has done, and what He has promised to do. When David showed up with the cheese and crackers he found the army of Israel discouraged by Goliath. They were fearful and discouraged. They were stuck in limbo-incapable of making an advance and winning the victory. David was surprised at their discouragement and announced that he knew Almighty God was able to deal with the situation. They scoffed, mocked and tried to kick him out of the camp. Instead David proved God to be true-He is mighty to save. The giant that was causing discouragement was easily disposed and a great victory ensued. Hebrews sounds the call to encourage one another, and to be encouraged by the incredible redemptive provision made in Christ. More than conquerors is the truth of who we are in Christ. The truth is that Christ reigns and is coming again. Let's shake the shackles of discouragement off and in the name of Christ shout Hallelujuah-Christ lives! Shine the light and let the whole world see, were singing for the glory of the risen King!