| My wife and I went to the Atlanta airport this past week. I was surprised and saddened as it was desolate. The vast majority of shops/restaurants were closed and the tarmac, which is usually bustling with activity, was totally empty. It was a very weird experience. I thought of the multitude of people without work and the discouraging struggles they faced. No doubt we all face distresses throughout our lives, but our Lord gives us encouragement to ENDURE them THROUGH HIS WORD. Do you remember the story about David and his men in 1 Samuel 30? The enemy had taken their families captive and David’s men were upset with him and considered stoning him. Verse 6 says “And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but Davidencouraged himself in the Lord.” So, David found encouragement to endure the distresses and keep on doing what he knew to do was right before the Lord. He recalled the Person of God and the things he knew about Him. We can do the same. As I considered what I saw at the airport, the Lord reminded me of what I had read a couple of days previous in my devotions. Ephesians 1:3 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:” At salvation, positionally, I received everything that God Almighty has – I am a joint heir of Jesus Christ!!!! Hey, all the distresses I will experience in this world will one day be a thing of the past. I will get to experience heaven forever and ever! Wow, another encouragement shot in the arm provided by my Lord. Thank You Lord for always being an encouragement to me through Your Word! |