Word for the day: “They see the glory but don’t know the story.”
II Chronicles 15:7 (KJV) But as for you, be strong; don’t be discouraged, for your work has a reward.
Beloved Leaders,
I’ve discovered in my life and leadership that often, people recognize the glory and glamor of what you do. However, more often than not, the same people don’t know the story and stress that accompany leadership. The adage “They see the glory but don’t know the story.” Today’s message will address a sample size of the story and stresses of leadership.
MANAGING DISCOURAGEMENT IN YOUR LIFE’S JOURNEY IS VITAL.
As children of God, we have many reasons to be thankful to the Lord. Yet, at the same time, even the most spiritual men and women often experience discouragement in their lives. After all, we live in a world where unrealized hopes can be a catalyst, and demands can be even higher. When we fail to meet the expectations of others or, for that matter, the expectations we have set for ourselves, all of this and more can be fuel for stress and discouragement.
However, I wanted to remind you that God has other plans for you and me today. The Lord knows exactly what He has purposed for our destiny (Jeremiah 29:11). Sometimes, taking a break to replenish yourself is a worthwhile activity because doing so allows you to reset and do other worthwhile things that enable you to be refueled in a healthy way. Beware, sitting around in self-pity isn’t the most helpful thing in your journey. To be discouraged is to have lost a sense of your own courage and strength.
We must learn more about ourselves and understand our emotional sensibilities. We are discouraged when we lose connection with our passions. It happens over time when we lack the proper perspective on our setbacks and failures. These setbacks are not permanent detours; they are temporary and a part of our process. We must surrender our perspectives and hearts to the Lord for empowered perspectives on ourselves and the Lord’s divine plans (Romans 8:28).
OUR SENSE OF ENCOURAGEMENT IS REALIZED IN OUR ACTIONS OF HAVING A MINDSET NOT TO GIVE UP.
To be encouraged, we must act “in” courage. Emotions aside, we must often act in the face of our fears and reservations. Regardless of the source of our discouragement, we must choose to act with courage, to act with the belief that we will succeed and that none of our efforts are a waste of our energy. The truth for all of us is that this mindset isn’t for the faint of heart but must be embraced by each of us, the beloved of God.
When we seek to form a more intimate and dynamic relationship with our Creator, the Lord renews our spirits and restores our souls (Psalm 23:3). The Lord gives us the strength to meet our challenges and hope for the future.
So, if you have become discouraged with the direction of your day or your life, it’s a great time to turn your thoughts and prayers to God. It’s amazing the great things we can experience in our lives when we surrender our trust and perspectives to God. Our personal surrender must be to the process, not to the results. As we trust the process, the Lord handles the results (Ephesians 3:20).
POINT TO PONDER
If you’re experiencing discouragement, take a moment to reset your mindset and focus instead on the amazing opportunities that surround you. I pray today’s message gives you some real encouragement. We love you here at Grace and Truth Leadership; we have a place and a heart for you!
Special thanks!
Chief Encouragement Officer (CEO) James Baker, Jr. and our leadership team are especially thankful for those of you who provided financial donations and support in October 2024, by partnering with us in efforts to advance the kingdom of God in this 21st century season: Special thanks to Mr. and Mrs. David and Annette Straker, Mr. Kenneth Washington, Ms. Itholear Abbott, Mrs. Barbara Mason, Ms. Michelle Winder Branch, Ms. Brenda Spoach, Ms. Angie Scraders-Murphy, Mr. Calvin Jackson, Mr. William Jones, Mr. William Buchanan, Mr. William Wilson, Mrs. Angela Harrison, Mrs. Lola Moore, Ms. Rita McGuffin and Ms. Gertrude Scott.
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Kingdom Blessings,