A Word Of Exhortation

by "Watchman" | Category: General | Jan 1981

In the experiences of God's servants in every age there have been seasons of depression and discouragement. There are many examples in Scripture of such occasions. "All these things are against me", cried despondent Jacob (Gen. 42:36). He saw no gleam of hope in the dark clouds which gathered around him. "It is enough; now 0 Lord take away my life, for I am not better than my fathers", was Elijah's petulant plea in a mood of extreme self-pity (1 Kin. 19:4). And disappointed Jonah, in anger and frustration, implored, "0 Lord, take, I beseech Thee, my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live" (Jonah 4:3). Moses, David, John the Baptist and many another man of God gave vent to similar emotions in times of severe trial.

It is not surprising, then, that we also become cast down and disheartened at times. There are many contributory causes to such a state of mind, circumstantial, physical and spiritual. In the ebb and flow of life, experiences of this kind are often used by our heavenly Father for our profit. We may need the lesson Paul was taught by the thorn in the flesh:

"When I am weak, then am I strong" (2 Cor. 12:10).

For some of God's people 1980 was a year of testing and trial. They have been disturbed and bewildered by distresses of various kinds. In such times there is always the danger of slipping from discouragement into despair and, in desperation, acting out of character as did Moses at Meribah (Num. 20).

As we enter 1981 it may be appropriate to enquire, How should we react to setback and disappointment in the service of the Lord? There is one supreme antidote to these assaults upon our faith.

In the closing chapters of the epistle to the Hebrews the writer faces the grave possibility that some of his readers are contemplating turning back from the way of God. In chapter 10 he refers pointedly to certain disturbing signs and symptoms which are the basis of his concern, and in chapter 11 he catalogues for their encouragement a cloud of witnesses to a life of triumphant faith. Then he adds this moving exhortation:

"... run with patience... looking unto Jesus the Author and Perfector of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (Heb. 12:1,2).

The vision of the cross and the throne of our victorious Redeemer will dispel all doubt and discouragement:

"Watchman" | Jan 1981
General