HPN Discouragement & Despair DevotionalSample

YOU ARE NEVER ALONE

"The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing...not healing, not curing...that is a friend who cares." Henri Nouwen

PRAY:  Oh Jesus, help me to be strong and courageous! I don't want to be afraid or discouraged, for YOU are my God and You will be with me wherever I go. Thank You that I can turn to You when I'm feeling weak and discouraged. And thank You that You are ALWAYS there for me, for You are with me wherever I go and with whatever I feel. Oh, Jesus, help me to understand how to apply Your commandments and promises to my daily life. In Your name I pray. Amen.

REFLECT: Think about obeying God's commandment to be strong and courageous. How do you actually do that? Is it possible to do it on your own? If He gives us that command, then it must be possible. Try focusing on the fact that Jesus is always with you; You are NEVER alone and you must not believe that you are weak, even if you feel it. This is when you need Him desperately and that's just where He wants you to be.

ACT: Memorize this scripture so that it is in your brain and your heart the next time you are discouraged. Say it over and over and let the truths of God's promise fill you up. Write the verse on an index card and start collecting a stack of cards to read over until they are a part of your being. You will feel less and less fearful or discouraged when this verse becomes a part of your DNA! Let this be the beginning of a lifetime of memorization.