Both of my sons (19 and 17 years old) have been going through some very trying circumstances. You may have been through circumstances similar in nature to theirs; circumstances where you are doing all the right things, everything you have been ask to do…and more. And, when given opportunities, you are performing as well or better than most,yet you are not receiving the same opportunities as others who are not conducting them selves with the same dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm. As young men, this confuses and frustrates them. This is not the way things are supposed to work. The terrific character traits they are displaying and demonstrating are supposed to be rewarded; The response when this is not the case can be to become disillusioned, angery, bitter, and we may even want to just give up feeling like we are a failure.
I have been doing my best to encourage them, praise them for there tremendous perseverance and attitudes, and just helping them stay courageous and positive. After a while, I admittedly run out of words that truely offer them what they need. But, recently I found the perfect words in scripture. I offered them to my two sons and I offer them to you, so that, if you are currently facing frustrating circumstances, or when you do find yourself faced with such a trial, you will be encouraged and lifted up. Isaiah 41:9-13 says…
I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, ‘You are my servant’;
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
”All who rage against you
will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you
will be as nothing and perish.
Though you search for your enemies,
you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
will be as nothing at all.
For I am the LORD, your God,
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
I will help you.
Tags: Anger, Be Happy, Bitterness, Contentment, Courage, Discouragement, Failure, Happy Life, Hope, Life Trials, Overcoming Discouragement, Victorious Life