In my most trying moments, it helps me to picture Jesus nudging me forward, and encouraging me.
Comfort
Grace Be With You (2 Timothy 4:22)
Years ago I began expanding my own concluding benediction remarks. The process has been enjoyable and thought-provoking for me.
The God of Peace Will Be With You (Philippians 4:8–9)
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Zoom Out (2 Corinthians 4:17–18)
While our troubles can “feel” eternal, God has actually “seen” eternity. He knows the end from the beginning, and has declared that all things are working for good in that eternal timeframe.
Finding Green Pastures (Psalm 23)
The places God leads us to are good.
“A Gentle Answer” Doesn’t Mean Sugarcoated (Proverbs 15:1–2)
I have found it really effective when talking to someone who is angry to say, “You sound angry about this,” or “I can hear that this is making you feel angry.” This gives the other person permission to be angry; an emotion that so many of us shy away from as if it is contagious.
To the One Who Overcomes (Revelation 2 & 3)
Do we get too focused on what others (like the seven churches) are doing well or doing poorly? Let’s not lose sight of the beautiful promises to all those who overcome!
Wait for the LORD (Psalm 27:13–14)
I remind myself to take time to stop and wait; and I will see the Mighty One’s goodness in my day.
This One Will Give Us Rest (Genesis 5:29)
If the Noah story were a parable about baskets or fish or coins or sheep, we would not miss the point. We would naturally draw out lessons of abundance.
Anger Has No Place (James 1:20)
Comfort one another, the day is fast approaching.
