Encouragement

Encouragement

Be merciful, O Lord, for I am looking up to you in constant hope.

Psalm 86:3, TLB

When our young children are hurt, sad, lonely, or confused, they often run to us. When we moms are hurt, sad, lonely, or confused, where do we run?

I love the words to a song by Kurt Kaiser that I learned in college:

Where shall I run, Lord, when all around me, trouble and strife seem to be everywhere? Haven’t you said that you would protect me? Safe in your hand I will evermore be. With such protection, none can alarm me, though the storms of life almost kill. Ever to this shelter I will be fleeing. No other one can provide peace for me.^a

If you’re feeling hurt, sad, lonely, or confused, write out the following verses on index cards and read them throughout the day to encourage your soul:

All those who know your mercy, Lord, will count on you for help. For you have never yet forsaken those who trust in you. (Psalm 9:10, TLB)

Blessed is the Lord, for he has shown me that his never-failing love protects me like the walls of a fort! (Psalm 31:21, TLB)

My protection and success come from God alone. He is my refuge, a Rock where no enemy can reach me. O my people, trust him all the time. Pour out your longings before him, for he can help! (Psalm 62:7-8, TLB)

Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, quiet me and give me renewed hope and cheer. (Psalm 94:19, TLB)

Father,

Thank you that no matter where we are—sitting in the car, standing at the sink, lying in bed, or walking outside—we can run to you anytime we need encouragement. Thank you that you renew us with your presence and your Word. Amen.