Finding Guidance in the Word
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil. 4:13

Encouragement is vital to the victorious walk of faith for followers of Jesus Christ! We occupy a world filled with discouragement, distress and despair. David learned to “encourage himself in the Lord his God” according to 1 Sam. 30:6. This significant spiritual lesson happened to David when he and his army came to Ziklag. On the third day the Amalekites attacked, burning Ziklag and taking hostage the people who were there, including two of David’s wives. In the midst of tremendous grief and threats to stone David, he strengthened himself in the Lord his God. As a result, David and his army pursued after the Amalekites, victory was secured, and what was lost was restored. Beloved warrior, we have the solution and the victory. His name is Jesus Christ. Our Lord saw to it that we would have His written word available as a way to encourage ourselves.

It is noteworthy that the word “encourage” means to strengthen or build up. It is recorded in the Hebrew as to be resolute, or steadfast. Each time we go to the Scriptures, we are growing stronger. Now that’s spiritual weight lifting! We also find within the word “encourage” is “courage.” Can you remember a time when you did something under the strength of the Lord that seemed very brave? Precious one, you were operating with His courage, fulfilling your spiritual lineage from Christ who is a “Lion from the Tribe of Judah.”
Our desire and prayer is that the truth found in God’s word provides you with rich, fresh manna for daily life. May you be encouraged, your mind renewed, and your heart strengthened by the inerrant word of God!

Lost? Look for Guidance in His Word

The following Scriptures provide guidance and direction for us. As you read through each verse, circle any word or phrase that seems important to you.

“But He brought His people out like a flock; he led them like sheep through the desert.”
Psalm 78:52

“I will listen to what God the LORD will say, He promises peace to His people, to His saints; …Righteousness is before Him; and He prepares the way for His footsteps.” Psalm 85:8, 13

“The LORD will guide you always, He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land, and strengthen your frame; you shall be like a well- watered garden, and like a spring, whose waters do not fail.” Isaiah 58:11

“Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD your God who teaches you to profit, who leads you by the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17

“You guide me with Your counsel, and afterward You will take me into glory.” Psalm 73:24

“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go: I will counsel you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8

“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known; along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things will I do; I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 “I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths, when you walk your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.” Proverbs 4:11, 12

“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”
Psalm 119:130

“You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”
Psalm 18:28

Further Discussion

Let’s consider the questions below for further discussion.
1. Was there one Scripture that your were drawn to more than the others? If so, which one was it?
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2. Why is that verse important to you right now?
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3. How can you apply that Scripture in your life?
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Meditation and Prayer

God speaks to us through His Holy Spirit, often times through Scripture. If you selected one of the verses in the exercise above, I encourage you to meditate upon that verse daily. Let each word sink into your spirit, as you give the Lord time to reveal Himself to you and show you who He longs to be for you in your situation. Then, write out a prayer thanking Him for all that He has shown you and is doing for you. Blessed be the name of the Lord!