4 Minute Read

Prepare Your Heart

To the best of your ability, get rid of all distractions. Take a few minutes to breathe deeply and quiet yourself in the Lord’s presence. Then, ask the Lord to speak to you in this time. Let Him know that you will listen and make whatever adjustments He will reveal to you.

Read God’s Word

Genesis 33-35
Matthew 11

A Verse for Today

Slowly and reflectively read the following verse(s) and listen to what God will say to you through His written Word. Consider writing down any insights He reveals to you.

John 11:11 (CSB): “Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one greater than John the Baptist has appeared, …”

Reflecting on God’s Word

As I write this, long before I scheduled this article to be released, I just got off the phone with someone who is horribly discouraged. They are going through a dark night of the soul, and I feel so badly for them.

After trying to encourage them, I pointed out that many of the leading characters in the Bible also became seriously discouraged. Some were downright depressed. I specifically mentioned the Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 1:8) and Elijah (1 Kings 19:3-5a). And I mentioned the man who appeared in our Bible reading today – John the Baptist.

The Gospel of John tells us that one of the first times that John the Baptist saw Jesus, he publicly proclaimed: “Here is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!” (John 1:29). There is no doubt whatsoever that John the Baptist knew who Jesus was. He was certain that He was the long-awaited Messiah.

But it wouldn’t be long before John the Baptist was imprisoned for standing up for righteousness. As he sat in prison, discouragement set in. His preconceived notions of what it would be like to be the Messiah’s forerunner were dashed. He was now rotting in jail, and doubts set in.

That’s why John sent some of his disciples to Jesus. He knew Jesus was the Messiah, but because of his discouragement, he desperately needed assurances.

As we read what Jesus told John’s disciples, we observe that he gave facts that proved he was the Messiah. He quoted Isaiah 35:5–6 and 61:1 and encouraged John’s disciples to observe that Isaiah’s prophecies described Jesus’ ministry perfectly.

But John needed more than facts for his head. He needed encouragement for his heart. So, as John’s disciples had turned away and were heading back to give him the facts, Jesus spoke loud enough for them to hear His words of encouragement.

Matthew 11:9-11 (CSB): “What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you.’ Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one greater than John the Baptist has appeared, …”

Jesus didn’t reprimand John for being discouraged. He patiently and compassionately gave him facts for his head and encouragement for his heart.

Please don’t beat yourself up when you get discouraged. Please don’t feel as if you are the only Christian who has ever felt that way. Other men and women, much better than us, have battled discouragement, and their stories are written on the pages of Scripture for all to see.

Realize that Jesus dearly cares when someone is discouraged. He is sympathetic and wants to encourage us. So when you are struggling, look for the words and ways that God may use to help you. He loves you very much.

Spend Time in Prayer

  • Ask God to help you see that many of the significant Christians in history battled discouragement so you are not alone.
  • Ask God to help you see the ways He wants to encourage your heart when you need it most.

Going Deeper

If you want to dig a little deeper into how Christians can overcome discouragement, consider reading the following GotQuestions article:

“What is the key to overcoming discouragement?”

Sharing

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Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com)