Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

If you are around me very much, you regularly hear me say, “How we start the day many times will determine what kind of day it will be.” This is not just a saying, it’s a powerful truth. When we start our day with positivity and faith, we set the tone for a day filled with hope and optimism. We can’t wait to see what kind of day it will be; we must determine what kind of day it will be. By starting our day with the affirmation, “This is the day the Lord has made, and I will rejoice in it. It’s going to be a great day. By His mercies, I’m starting this day anew. I’m going to be productive. I’m going to enjoy my family. I’m going to honor God. I’m grateful to be alive.” We are setting our minds to receive more peace, joy, and favor. We are making plans for a blessed day. We are empowering ourselves with thoughts of victory, favor, breakthroughs, and abundance. We are making plans to rise higher, accomplish dreams, and go further than we’ve imagined.

On the Sunday after Jesus was crucified, two of His disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were so discouraged and sorrowful that Jesus was gone that their hopes and dreams were shattered. They were so focused on what didn’t work out, this great disappointment, that they didn’t recognize the risen Jesus who suddenly joined them in their journey and conversation. In that incredible moment, Jesus explained to them all that the Scripture had predicted about Him, how He would be crucified and rise from the dead on the third day. It wasn’t until later that day that they realized their seven-mile walk had been in the presence of the risen Savior. How often do we not recognize what God is doing on our daily journey? We’re so caught up in dealing with problems, trying to fix our finances, our family, or an illness that we don’t see all the good things God is doing in the present moment. Today, try not to be so focused on what’s wrong that you don’t recognize that Jesus is walking beside you through it all. I want you to hear me this morning. I know many of us are facing delays or setbacks and have had some hurts and disappointments, but be encouraged. That’s not how your story ends. If your story isn’t good right now, it’s not over. That’s one chapter, but you have a whole book. You’re still going to laugh again, love again, dream again. When the thoughts whisper, “It’s too late to ever work out,” recognize that’s the enemy trying to keep you from the awesome future God has in store. Tune that out and get in agreement with your Creator. He’s saying, “It’s still going to happen; you are going to love again and laugh again.”

God has a victorious and abundant finish waiting for you. That means you’re blossoming, seeing dreams coming to pass, and going further than you’ve imagined. That means you’re healthy and whole, and a bigger blessing than ever awaits you. New doors are about to open. Trust that the right people are about to show up. What God has in mind is much better and more rewarding than anything you’ve seen, heard, or imagined.