Hold on! This too, will pass!

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Cor. 4:16-18 NIV)

Have you ever gotten discouraged?

I have. Lots of times! Usually it's because something negative has happened beyond my control. Recently I was working on a complicated computer project and suddenly the program crashed and took all my work with it. I stared at the screen in disbelief and was discouraged to have lost so much hard work. But, I realized that I couldn't do anything about it. So, I took a deep breath, asked God for help, and just started over. I eventually finished the project and it's now history. 

It happens to everybody!

Truth is, everyone has something negative happen now and then. It can't be avoided. As long as you live on planet earth there will be discouraging moments. But, you can’t allow them to control you. You must recognize them for what they are and deal with them as quickly and positively as you can.

They are temporary!

The Bible reminds us that the troubles we see are only momentary and we must look past them towards what is permanent - to the things that are eternal. “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory.” (2 Cor. 4:17 NIV). 

When troubles come, call on God!

“And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15 ESV)

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matt 7:7 ESV)

Don't give up!

“Through hard work, perseverance and a faith in God, you can live your dreams.” – Dr. Ben Carson