So, be honest. Have you thought it too? Maybe even uttered it under your breath?
“Here we go again…”
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,
but only what is helpful for building others up
according to their needs,
that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29
It might be car repairs. Or job issues. Or family conflict. Or financial hurdles. Or illness. Or…. any number of things that seem way too repetitive for our comfort. Those frequent discouragers that seem to know right where to get us and, honestly, do! I’ve had numerous conversations lately about this and a phrase keeps coming to my lips – “a familiar and slippery slope.” Discouragement can be a familiar and slippery slope. Complaining can be a familiar and slippery slope. Bad habits are a familiar and slippery slope. We arrive at the top of that hill as if in a daze – without any effort at all – and before we know it, down we go!
Be prepared.
You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own.
Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued,
so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet.
Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them.
You’ll need them throughout your life.
God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.
In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare.
Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters.
Keep your eyes open.
Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.
Ephesians 6:13-18 (MSG)
We have been prepared for this! The Lord has equipped us for the difficult season. We are called to be lights in the darkness, not add to it with disparaging comments. Now before you think I am being critical of others, please know that I am preaching to myself! In recent days I have heard the Holy Spirit whisper to me, “Kelly, that wasn’t from me. You are an encourager, life-bringer, speaker of truth.” How quickly the Lord’s admonition cuts to the core of the issue and just as quickly reminds me of who I am. It is like a pruning immediately followed by healing balm.
Yes, we are human, and these thoughts and feelings are a normal part of our human experience. But we can’t afford to meander toward that familiar and slippery slope in the process. We can’t risk believing lies whispered to us. We don’t have the luxury of camping in discouragement. The Lord has walked with us through difficulties, taught us how to fight on our knees, and strengthened us for battle so we can be victorious and help each other in the battle, not to get beat up again!
And we urge you, brothers and sisters,
warn those who are idle and disruptive,
encourage the disheartened, help the weak,
be patient with everyone.
1 Thessalonians 5:14
Let’s remind ourselves to encourage one another when the trail gets difficult. If someone is tripping us up with their disruptive words, kindly warn them of that danger. Let’s be patient with others – and ourselves – as we trust the Lord to lead, grow, and refine us as only He can. We are in this together and our loving Father is constantly reminding us – through each other – that…
You are adored.
You Are Adored 