But be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve Him. Think of all the wonderful things He has done for you. – 1 Samuel 12:24 NLT
A few years ago, the place where I was working had some major financial problems and I, along with several others, got laid off. It was one of the worst days of my life.
A couple of months into my job search I became discouraged. As time went on, my discouragement turned into resentment towards my previous employer and also God for letting this happen.
One day I went for a walk to clear my head. I pulled out my Bible app and came across today’s verse. Think of all the wonderful things He has done for me, I thought to myself. What wonderful things? I’m the sole provider for my wife and two kids, and I just lost my job. What “wonderful things” is He talking about?
As my mind searched for meaning, God began to bring some of those beautiful things into my view. As I started to look back, I could see many of the ways God had “been there” for me. They were like mile markers on the highway of my life.
I opened a file on my phone, titled it “Remembrance Journal,” and started to write down everything that was coming to my mind. On days when I struggled to keep trusting God for me and my family’s future, I pulled out this list and began to reflect on how God had taken care of us throughout our lives.
I left the park that day with a renewed sense of hope. I was still hurt, but I was healing. It took a couple more months before I landed a job. It wasn’t an easy season, but thinking of all the things God had done for me helped me have the strength I needed to keep going.
If you’re feeling discouraged and forgotten by God, take some time this week to make a list of all the ways God has blessed you and been there for you.
Spend a few minutes each morning reading that list and write down at least three things you’re grateful for. When you pray, spend a few moments at the front end thanking God for who He is and what He’s done for you. Before you go to bed, write down at least three wins you experienced that day.
The more time you spend thinking of what God has done for you, and thanking Him for those things, the less worried and discouraged you’ll be.
When you feel God has forgotten ABOUT you, remember what He has done FOR you.
Dig Deeper
1. How has God shown up for you in the past?
2. What are some ways you can keep these things in front of you on the days when you feel discouraged?
