Things that brighten our day:
compliments, hugs, surprises, help from a friend, conviction
Wait -
conviction?
We know encouragement lifts us up and makes us feel better,
but conviction?
Conviction gives us a similar hope.
You don't put effort into something with no value.
Cleaning, sanding, painting to restore something is a waste of time
if the item has no value.
Conviction from the Holy Spirit identifies a problem, a weak point,
but it also speaks value.
God says you are worth it.
He could cast us aside.
The real truth is we are suited for the junk pile,
but He loves us.
You were bought at a price - 1 Corinthians 6:20a
You have a purpose.
You need cleaning; sanding;
You probably have a few screws loose,
but He can fix that.
Hebrews 12: 5-7;11-13
And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
. . .
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
Psalm 51:1-2; 11-12
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
. . .
Cast me not away from Your presence
and take not Your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of Your salvation
and uphold me by your spirit.
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