The short biblical section I did read over breakfast was in Colossians chapter 1. It knocked straight into my discouragement. Beginning in verse 9, Paul says the Spirit gives us wisdom and understanding of God’s will so we can:

1) bear fruit through our works
2) grow in the knowledge of God
3) draw on his strength to patiently endure

As you look back on times of affliction, do you remember being suddenly, inexplicably encouraged to persevere? This is what the Holy Spirit does in our lives.

Sometimes he does it through people, an apt Scripture, or a thought he plants and grows in us.

In the 17th-century classic The Mystery Of Providence, John Flavel writes:

“Providence gives great assistance to the work of the Spirit upon the soul, by ordering, supporting, relieving and cheering means, to prop up and comfort the soul when it is over-burdened and ready to sink in the depths of troubles” (p. 71).

Yesterday, a business worry began deepening in me. It festered overnight and reintroduced itself to me this morning. It sapped my desire to read the Bible or write the devotion I planned for the week.

Read More