We have all been there. We have felt it. We make mistakes, we fail, we become discouraged, and then we fall down. Unfortunately, too many of us stay down and down becomes our dwelling place, our attitude, and ultimately, our lifestyle. Maybe you have met that person? After spending just a few minutes with a downer, you may find yourself in an inexplicably bad mood. A person that allows life’s circumstances to keep them down is surrounded by darkness. A person walking in The Light, that is Jesus, cannot fellowship with darkness without being affected.

Scripture is filled with examples of those who had every reason to be down; every reason to be out; but with God’s help, they conquered immense hardship and persevered! Among them were: David, who faced constant persecution from King Saul, yet remained loyal to God. Joseph endured prison, was falsely accused, and not to mention, sold into slavery by his family, nevertheless, his faith remained strong. Job seemed to have it worse than most when he lost everything, and although he questioned God’s plan, he never abandoned his faith. Ruth’s husband died and yet she remained loyal to her mother-in-law and allowed God to use her in a big way. Jonah disobeyed God, got swallowed by a whale, and God still had a plan for him. Peter denied Jesus three times but found mercy and forgiveness in the Savior’s arms.

We too will fall, but God remains faithful. None of our failures or our darkest sins are beyond God’s great redemption. Maybe you have been down for a long time and you are certain that God cannot forgive you because you cannot even forgive yourself. God wants to wipe your slate clean today and remind you that even though you are down, you are not out!

Dear Merciful Father, I know I do not deserve the second and third chances you have given me, but I thank you for your forgiveness; for loving me so much that you have not given up on me. Thank you, In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    Psalm 37:24 (NKJV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B.