August 13

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, Who loved us and gave us everlasting consolation and encouragement and well-founded hope through [His] grace (unmerited favor), Comfort and encourage your hearts and strengthen them [make them steadfast and keep them unswerving] in every good work and word”. 2 Thessalonians 2:16 (AMPC)

We can put our hope, trust, and faith in all kinds of things, and all day long we are making decisions where to do so—often without even realizing! Some are good decisions, healthy and helpful, like trusting in the laws of gravity, that keep us up; and some perhaps not so good, more destructive in nature, like repeatedly trusting in people who continually let us down!

However, there is one well-founded place, not only to put our hope in, but to receive hope from, and that is in Christ Jesus our Lord, for His love, commitment, and devotion, are rock solid and sure. He is the One Who lifts up the downcast, gathers in His arms the worn, the weary, and the weak, knowing exactly what is needed, when, and how it is best received. 

Beloved, all things of enduring value proceed from God and are the work of His Spirit alone! His strength enables, and His impartations equip, allowing us to both receive, and release, the goodness of our loving Father, and His amazing grace! Desires placed in Him become hopes fulfilled, as He brings to successful conclusion all He has for you, and all the good works He has called you to do!

Strengthening and steadfast is your God. Unwavering and unending is His love. His plans are perfect, and perfectly planned, for lovely, and deeply loved, you.

Prayer:

Come today, Lord I pray, and encourage my heart in all that is good and all that is of You. Strengthen me to believe every word that You say, and to trust in all that You have promised to do.  There is no one like You Lord, in all the earth. No one as good, as loving, and as gracious as You.

No one is more trustworthy and true.

Breathe on me today, Lord, equip and empower me to be, and to do, all that is beautiful in Your eyes. All that is a blessing to You.