God's PromisesSample

HE GIVES ME STRENGTH

As people on this big rock called Earth, we struggle a lot. Adversity loves to find us at school, in the workplace, and even in our homes. Perseverance in these times of challenge can seem daunting, and often we feel like submitting to whatever it may be, but here's the good news. We aren't held by our own strength, to begin with! (Cue the drumroll!) We have an amazing, loving, and loyal God. It’s important to remember that our heavenly Father is always in control. He is the true source of all success, and our God is our ultimate provider of strength.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” No matter what we face, we will always have loving support and provision from God. We have the beautiful ability to rely on our greater Father when we need strength in times of weakness. As I write this, I can't help but hum this line from the kids’ “Jesus loves me” song, “Little ones to him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.” Sort of goofy, I know, but through this familiar lens, I find comfort in not needing to be fighting to be so strong and to rely on God’s “powerful hand” and “mighty arm," as said in Psalm 89:21.

We can come to God in times of weakness and in times of fasting. Throughout the remainder of your dedication to prayer and fasting, it can be challenging, yes, but be strong in your faith. Remember, it's God’s strength that keeps you afloat. Thank God for what a deep connection to Him we’ve been blessed with!

Hayden Hollingsworth, Encounter student