WORD OF THE WEEK - ENCOURAGE - 11/10/24

Definition:to make someone more likely to do something, or to make something more likely  to happen: to talk or behave in a way that gives someone confidence to do something
Scriptures:Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”Psalm 23:4 -”Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Website:  www.wow-newton.com

Website: www.wow-newton.com
Email:  osnewton@wow-newton.com

Transcript

Definition:to make someone more likely to do something, or to make something more likely  to happen: to talk or behave in a way that gives someone confidence to do something
Scriptures:Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”Psalm 23:4 -”Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

THOUGHT
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade” is an adage I have heard throughout my life. These words are meant to encourage us to understand that life does not always go our way. Sometimes, we face circumstances we neither anticipate nor desire, but they suddenly become reality. In this metaphor, the reality is the lemon.Recently, the people of the United States made one of the most unprecedented decisions in the country’s political history. In the 230 years since the United States of America became a republic, we have never elected a convicted felon to the office of President.
As a result of this election, there is an overriding spirit of fear, trepidation, anxiety, and concern for the welfare of the state and its citizens—felt not only among those who voted for him but especially among those who voted against him. Many fear that the rights of women, minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and other marginalized groups could be overturned or drastically altered.
The justification for electing a criminally convicted individual to the highest office partly stems from Mr. Trump’s ability to fulfill prophecies shared by figures like Mark Taylor and Kim Clement, who believe he will bring righteousness back to American society. His platform, which upholds conservative stances on issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and strong border control, aligns with the agenda of evangelical nationalists who support him.
As we collectively navigate this changing political landscape, it is imperative for Christians to operate in a spirit aligned with God’s principles. Romans 13:1-3 instructs Christians to “be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore, whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” If this principle causes you discomfort, I ask: “Where is your faith?”
If you love God, then you believe that all things work together for good. Despite the elevation of this individual to the highest office, trust that he too will fulfill God’s will for the good of His children—or face the consequences of God’s judgment.  
Let me encourage you, as children of God, to seek God for guidance in this time. Continue to pursue righteousness, immerse yourself in the Word, and be righteous in your relationship with God and one another.  If you still feel upset, afraid, or discouraged, I further urge you to change your perspective and choose to encourage yourself.
CONFESS THE FOLLOWING:• God is my champion, and with Him, it is impossible to lose.• I know that God only wants the best for me.• God has promised to love, protect, and help me.• God is my salvation and my help in times of trouble.• I have no doubts and no fear because my destiny is in the hands of  God who         loves me.
After fortifying yourself with these confessions, share your encouragement and faith with others, so that in moments of weakness, those around you can help keep you on track.
This world, this future, this battle—it is not yours; it is the Lord’s.And that, my friends, is the lemonade... enjoy!