Standing Strong In The Face Of Setbacks
Standing Strong In The Face Of Setbacks
Lord, can you encourage me in the face of this setback?
I have not given you a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for I am with you. I will not fail you or forsake you. Don’t be dejected and sad, for my joy is your strength!
2 Timothy 1:7; 1 Chronicles 28:20; Nehemiah 8:10
What can encourage me?
How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what I had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight.
Hebrews 11:32-34
What can I pray when I feel discouraged by a setback?
I know that you cause everything to work together for the good of those who love you and are called according to your purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
When it seems like a setback is keeping you from your dreams, read the full story of Joseph in Genesis 37–50. God has promised to use anything and everything for his good and ours. Looking at our setbacks from that perspective keeps us alert to what we can learn from them and the purpose that God will work out of them. Think of a setback you have faced in your life. How has God redeemed it? Has he allowed your setback to minister to others? Used your setback to shape you to become more like Jesus?
From the book
