When asked, “What’s the single most important thing you do as a leader?” Ray Johnston, in the YouVersion Bible plan, The Hope Quotient answered; “The single most important thing I do is make sure I stay encouraged.”
This, to me, is brilliant! For most of my 70 years I have looked to others for their grace-filled responses to encourage me. When they were few and far between, I became discouraged! I think Pastor Johnston is suggesting that I take away their power over me and look to the Holy Spirit and what God has planned and purposed for me. I must recognize and be thankful for my blessings and the gifts and talents with which God has granted me. I have often looked to do this, but never with the purpose that I remain encouraged. I have never, ever thought that staying encouraged could or should depend on me. From here on out if I should reach a point of discouragement I should only look inward and pray the Lord reveals the plan and purpose I’ve lost sight of, seek His will, and pull myself out of the muck!
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13