Daily Devotional, Saturday, January 9, 2021
….March on, my soul, be strong!
Judges 5:21 (NIV)
Motivational speaking is big business. Many gifted and charismatic speakers have millions of followers on television and social media. Numerous inspirational books are bought off the market before they reach book shops. It is possible that you have a motivational book or two on your book-shelf right now.
While some motivational speakers play with people’s negative situations to make money, we cannot downplay the role of motivation in personal development and response to adversity. So, what exactly contributes to humanity’s obsession with motivational content?
We may not have a precise answer, but we know our world is filled with so much negativity that any positive ray of light is welcome to despondent souls. We all look forward to the silver lining behind the crowd. Good news is always welcome.
Even the Bible urges Christians to motivate one another. Take for example Hebrews 10:24, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11, adopts the same theme; “Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
Today, however, we will focus on a verse that one can easily miss out. It is found in the song of Deborah and Barak, the female judge and the reluctant warrior, respectively. It captures the need to look within yourself for encouragement. The phrase, “March on, my soul” remind us of the need to reflect on our past experience with God to gain the courage to face uncertainty. It tells us to look within ourselves for motivation, even as we rely on God.
Like Deborah and Barak, in the midst of unfavourable circumstances, you can summon all your strength and tell yourself to march on, for God is with you. If and when you reach a point where it appears like everyone has deserted you, you can confidently say with Paul, “for I know whom I have believed in” (2 Timothy 2:15. Like Job, you can rise from the ashes of despair and shout with confidence, “I know my Redeemer lives” (Job 19:25).
Whatever unfavorable situation you may be going through today, encourage your mind and body to march on. Beyond the pain and struggle lies the reward. There can be no victory without a battle. Heroes are born during adversity, not ease. March on! Be strong, child of God!
Take Action
- Choose a Bible verse that encourages you during adversity. Memorize and recite it whenever you fill like giving up.
- Ask God for faith to withstand and overcome tough times to the extent that you will be able encourage others going through trials.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, in times when I am tempted to give up, remind me to march on and be strong, for victory is assured for those who wait on you. Amen
Very encouraging deep words. It’s a challenge for us believers that whenever we feel won out we need to be strong and move forward and mostly I think we forget and worry too much, forget that there’s whom that is always with us no matter what! We forget he’s done so much before …it’s a great reminder and encouragement.. marching on no matter what..
Amen, Margaret
There are times when you must motivate yourself, pick up the pieces and march on with your life, in the Name of Jesus. Please leave a comment to encourage other readers.
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