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A Word of Encouragement |
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October 9, 2026 |
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Bridge West of Leavenworth, WA 021 Aug 2001 |
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Grace, Hope & Peace, Friend; My brother-in-law, Peter, reminded me, when I was visiting family in New York, that we need to be careful when we tell others what God will do. I told him I was getting a t-shirt that simply says, "I can't, but I know a guy who can." When we see a non-believer going through a difficult situation or illness, are we tempted to tell them turn to God and He will take care of the situation? As believers, we know God never promised to 'fix' all our problems. In fact, Jesus specifically said, "In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) And, when Paul prayed that God would take away his 'thorn in the flesh', God said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9) When Jesus gave us His glorious invitation, "Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest," He did not promise to take away our problems! He continued, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29) A 'yoke' shares a burden between two animals. Jesus wants us to come to Him and let Him carry our burden with us. There is tremendous peace and comfort in knowing that God knows what we are going through and every situation we encounter is for our benefit. (Jeremiah 29:11) Whether God's purpose is to draw us to Himself, strengthen our faith, or lead us in another direction, His eye is on our future. To the believers in Corinth, Paul wrote, "God comforts us, in our problems, so we can comfort others." (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) I will still get the t-shirt - "I can't, but I know a guy who can," but instead of telling them, "God will take away your problems," I tell them how he has helped me bear my problems and assure them, "His grace is sufficient for them." David wrote, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4) Whatever you are going through, Jesus wants to go through it with you. So, Paul declared,
Elohei kol nechamah - God of all Comfort - Help me encourage others to share their burdens with You.
He can, |
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