Hi Reeva,
Thanks for reminding us, I think we all deal with discouragement from time 
to time.  Huggs and blessings,

Virgie and lady Hoshi
doing business at

www.vunderwood.ktostemtech.com
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Reeva Parry" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, July 30, 2007 12:17 PM
Subject: Dealing With Discouragement


> Dealing With Discouragement
>
>
> Nehemiah 1:1-11
>
>
> Discouragement can feel like a big weight on our shoulders. It slows us 
> down and makes work more difficult. It can diminish our  enjoyment of 
> life.
>
> People drag us down when they regard our best efforts as unsatisfactory. A 
> steady stream of criticism from a family member,  neighbor, or co-worker 
> can affect how we feel about ourselves.
>
> Dissatisfaction with our actions can also prove discouraging. Maybe it 
> relates to a personal weakness we can't overcome or a high  personal 
> expectation we've failed to meet. Either reason can cause discouragement.
>
> Past disappointments cause some of us to have little hope for the future. 
> Financial pressures, declining health, and painful  relationships take a 
> toll on our emotions.
>
> The life of Nehemiah teaches an important lesson about handling 
> discouragement. He was a Hebrew living in Persia and serving as cup-bearer 
> for the king. Nehemiah heard a report about the poor condition of 
> Jerusalem and the plight of the Jews. He was deeply affected. In his 
> disappointment over their situation, Nehemiah turned to the Lord in 
> prayer. He knew only His great God could change the situation. In the same 
> way, our discouragement should drive us to cry out to the Lord.
>
> Nehemiah praised God's awesome character, confessed his sins and the sins 
> of others, recalled divine promises, and presented his  request. Let's 
> follow Nehemiah's example and take our disappointments to the Lord in 
> prayer.