Life is constantly changing and often our support system does, too. The comfort of having your support system reach out and help you through tough times is amazing. However, God should also be one of the contacts in your support system. In this post, we’re talking about how to encourage yourself in the Lord.
During one of my deepest times of need, I realized the moral support from others was lacking and found myself wondering how to encourage myself. I then remembered a piece of scripture that God is a very present help in trouble and actually felt comforted.
From that point forward, I learned to lean on my faith in the Lord to renew my strength.
So, here are a few ways to encourage ourselves in the Lord.
How to Encourage Yourself in the Lord:
1. Set aside time and be present with God
When your earthly support system is quiet, there is always one supporter in your corner: God. You can take this time to speak to Him about your situation or read your Bible.
Set the atmosphere by singing your favorite praise and worship song.
Or, simply be present. Sit quietly in His presence and enjoy the peace that comes along with it.
As you allow the stillness to hold you, ask Him to order your steps and rest knowing that He is faithful.
2. Speak Scriptures Over Yourself
You can keep a list of your favorite bible verses or quotes to lift your spirits. For example, I encourage myself and renew my strength by speaking scriptures like these out loud:
- God is our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble. – Psalm 46:1 ESV
- Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7
- If God is for us, who can be against us? – Romans 8:31.
- God didn’t bring me this far to leave me – An interpretation of Philippians 1:6 (and reminds me of one of my favorite gospel songs)
- Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
Related Post: Quotes about Hope for the Future
3. Have a chat with a Faith Filled friend
I remember a sermon where Bishop T.D. Jakes said something about not telling your problems to people who don’t have solutions. Although I can’t remember the exact quote, it is very true!
In the Bible, Jesus always prayed the solution. Seek out a friend who is willing to talk with you, encourage you, pray with you and one who believes there’s a positive solution.
4. Praying is Priority
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”
Romans 8:26 NIV
Whether it’s a long prayer in solitude or a prayer in your car, pray and unlock the encouragement that God has placed within you. We have to also remember that the Holy Spirit is a mighty helper during prayer.
You’re never alone in whatever you’re going through because He’s always with you.
5. Encourage yourself in the Lord by renewing your Faith
Our ears are constantly overwhelmed with negative words, doubt and fear. It may be time to have a faith refresher to get back on track.
Listen to some online sermons from a favorite pastor, tune into one of the many faith based podcasts available or attend online bible study.
It’s always good practice to keep your faith muscle strong.
“So then Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
Romans 10:17 NKJV
Related Post: How to Bloom Where You Are Planted
6. Recall and Rejoice over the past victories
Remember the past victories that God has delivered to you. Call all those blessings to remembrance and find encouragement in them.
If needed, even write them down if you haven’t already.
It’s helpful to have a reference of God’s faithfulness in your life to remind yourself. As you read over them, give yourself space to rejoice about His faithfulness! God is good!!
For example, I try to journal about each victory that God has given to me so I can easily remember it during a difficult time. I also write daily gratitude lists and look back over them for a quick dose of encouragement!
Related Post: Simple Spiritual Goals For Your Everyday Life
Final Thought on Encouraging Yourself in the Lord
Most importantly, you may be the friend who is always able to encourage everyone and believe in them.
Don’t forget that sometimes the Encourager needs to be encouraged.
In order to be able to encourage others, remember to take the time to replenish and encourage yourself in the Lord as well.
This post was all about how to encourage yourself in the Lord.