Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

Focusing on the finish line can make you miss today’s beauty. You might overlook your child’s funny moments while dressing and feeding them or neglect your spouse while trying to fix their flaws. How much life are you missing in the pursuit of happiness? Slow down and appreciate the journey and the good things in your life now.

Cherish the people God has given you. They may not be perfect, but neither are you. Appreciate your spouse; many would love to have them. Instead of saying, “These kids are so much work,” remember that many couples wish to have children. Turn complaints like, “It’s Monday; I have to work” into “I get to work; I have a job and income.” Rather than saying, “Driving in traffic is stressful,” say, “I get to drive; I have a car.” Instead of stating, “Cleaning the house is my life story,” recognize, “I get to clean; I’m blessed with a home.”

Finding joy in your journey depends on your perspective. “I may not be in my dream home yet, but I’m grateful for a roof over my head, Lord.” “The job I’m at isn’t my final destination, but Lord, I’m thankful for my employment.” The enemy seeks to lead us into merely enduring life rather than truly enjoying it. Having children, being married, owning a home, or securing a job does not automatically ensure happiness. We often pursue the next milestone, thinking it will bring us joy.

Paul said in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever things are wholesome, good, pure, if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” I love how he used the word “If.” “If there be any virtue.” He was saying, “You have to look for the good.” In your family, look for the good. In your spouse, despite any flaws, how about looking for the good? In that challenge you are facing, a lot’s coming against you; look for the good.

If you’re going to find joy in the journey, you have to look past all the wrongs and see the rights. And sometimes, it’s just that you shouldn’t still be here; the opposition should have taken you out, the sickness should have defeated you, or how you were raised should have held you back.

In Luke 24, Jesus was crucified on Friday. That Sunday, two disciples walked from Jerusalem to Emmaus, feeling discouraged after losing their rabbi. While discussing the recent events, Jesus joined them, without recognizing Him, and they discussed the prophets’ predictions about His crucifixion and resurrection on the third day, explaining the Scriptures.

What an incredible moment! They walked with Jesus, who had just risen from the dead, and He helped them understand the Old Testament prophecies about God’s plan. The seven-mile walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus was late at night, so they asked Jesus to stay with them. Jesus broke the bread during dinner, and their eyes were opened. They finally recognized Him before He suddenly disappeared.

How often do we miss what God is doing? We’re caught up in daily stress—how to recover financially—overlooking the good: God sustaining, favoring, and guiding us. Don’t fixate on what’s wrong; recognize what’s good and do the next right thing.

How often do we appreciate our own journeys? Like the disciples, could God be performing wonders we overlook? Scripture says, “God opened their eyes, and they recognized Jesus.” My prayer is, “God, open our eyes! Help us see miracles, recognize your goodness, and be aware of your presence. Let us not be so distracted by ambitions and setbacks that we forget to enjoy our journey.”

People won’t always be here, so don’t take them for granted. Small things often give life meaning. We must learn to enjoy quiet moments. While waiting for significant events, treasure small joys: laughing with children, walking with a partner, watching the sunrise, and hearing birds sing. Don’t let busyness overshadow these pleasures.

Without joy in the journey, you’ll dwell on negatives and complain. The Israelites overlooked how God provided for them, viewing daily manna as unremarkable. Though God was present, they failed to see Him. Their constant complaints led God to declare that only their children would enter the Promised Land. After striking the rock at Meribah Kadesh, even Moses would only view the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, where some Jewish scholars believe the prophet Jeremiah hid the Ark of the Covenant.

Much of life is spent waiting for promises. We see the destination and know what God placed in our hearts. The key is: what do you see on the journey? If you focus on negatives—like delays or lost connections—doubt creeps in, leading to complaints and missing God’s best. Remember, God is with you on this journey, sustaining, protecting, providing, and guiding your steps.

Thank God daily for His work. “Lord, thank you for how far You’ve brought me, for making my path straight, and for fighting my battles.” You can choose to complain or praise; complaining keeps you stuck while praising lifts you up.

There was a very wealthy family. The father wanted to show his seven-year-old son how poor people lived. They left their big, fancy house and drove out to the country, spending the night on a farm. It was just a tiny wood-frame house with no TV, fancy furniture, or even carpet—just a farmhouse. But at night, this family would go out on the porch to tell stories, laugh, and sing.

After a day on the farm, they headed home. The father wanted to check if his son learned his lesson and asked how he enjoyed the trip. The son replied, “Oh, Dad, I loved it.” The father asked, “Did you see how poor people can be?” The son said, “Yes, dad, I did.” The father pressed, “Tell me what you learned.” The boy explained, “Dad, we have one dog, and they have four. Our pool is just ours, but they have a never-ending stream. We have fancy lanterns, but they have stars. We watch TV alone while they sit together, laugh, and have fun.” The father was in disbelief as the son concluded, “Dad, thank you for showing me how poor we are.”

Life’s simple things bring joy. You may lack resources, but with family, you are wealthy. Good health means wealth. Appreciating the stars at night signifies wealth. It’s not about quantity; joy lies in the journey. Are you recognizing God’s goodness and blessings or fixating on what’s lacking? Delaying happiness for a future goal causes us to overlook the beauty of today. I hope this speaks to you, and I pray you have a blessed day!