“Jesus … said, ‘Go home to you family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.’”
Mark 5:19
Near the end of my final jail sentence, I attended every Bible study offered in the institution where I was doing time. My release date approached, yet I felt a growing sense of anxiety over what would become of me when I was out. I knew God had a plan for me, but I didn’t know what life would look like, or whether I’d be able to resist the temptations that surely waited beyond the gates.
On one occasion, two men came as former prisoners to share their testimonies about now walking with the Lord. I should have been encouraged, but I felt like they were bragging. I grew judgmental and discouraged. Was I ever missing the point! These men wanted us to hear that God was faithful. They testified that walking with Him led to a life worth living.
When we begin to doubt and worry about what will become of us, we can draw strength from Jesus and from other believers. We may question how we’ll remain faithful to God, but we also can tune in to the words of worship, gratitude, and joy that make up each of our testimonies.
On one occasion, two men came as former prisoners to share their testimonies about now walking with the Lord. I should have been encouraged, but I felt like they were bragging. I grew judgmental and discouraged. Was I ever missing the point! These men wanted us to hear that God was faithful. They testified that walking with Him led to a life worth living.
When we begin to doubt and worry about what will become of us, we can draw strength from Jesus and from other believers. We may question how we’ll remain faithful to God, but we also can tune in to the words of worship, gratitude, and joy that make up each of our testimonies.
Scripture Focus
Mark 5:1-19
Insight
How can the counsel and encouragement of other people help you center your heart and hope on God today?
Bible In A Year
- Exodus 37-38
- Psalm 44
- Luke 8