Verse: Proverbs 24:16
for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again,
Thoughts
Have you ever felt like giving up? Let's be real this morning, we all have been there. Whether it is falling to the same temptation again for the 1000th time, or hurting someone's feelings again, or drifting from your relationship with God, we've all done it.
We've all made those mistakes and at one point or another thought, "I just keep messing up. God doesn't want me. I should give up."
Maybe you are feeling that way this morning. If so, I want you to read this proverb again. When I was a teenager I memorized this verse and said it to myself more often that I'd care to admit.
I fell A LOT. But I would encourage myself with this verse. Even though I've fallen 100 times, the righteous will rise again. Even though I sin, drift from God, make selfish decisions, and outright rebel - God is always there to help me stand and keep going. God NEVER gives up on me, so I can't give up either.
Psalm 37:23-24 says a similar thing:
The Lord makes firm the steps
of the one who delights in him;
though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
Let this be your encouragement today. Don't give up. Listen, we are all going to fall. Repeatedly. I'm not saying "No big deal!!" But I am saying, God has grace and forgiveness for you. More than you can ever know.
A lot of following Jesus is not getting it all right, but being willing to get back up, rely on his grace, and keep moving.
You have a God who loves you in your worst moments. He cares for you deeply. He believes in you. And he will NEVER give up on you. So don't give up on yourself. You don't have to have it all together. In fact, that's kind of the reason Jesus came. He's got you.
Prayer
Sometimes I feel so low God, I pray that you would lift me up and encourage me. Thank you that your love and forgiveness have no end.