by Gregory A. Johnson
The day in which we live is full of uncertainty and change. We don’t know when our Lord will return, but we watch with anticipation as we move along on our journey of following Him from earth to glory. With each passing day, we realize how fragile life can be; we realize that we need help on our journey. Each of us needs encouragement and people in our lives who will encourage us.
As I was growing up, I always helped my dad when he worked on things around the house or on the cars. I would get his toolbox and be quick to hand him each tool that he asked for. To this day, when I see dad’s toolbox, I remember all the great times I had as I spent time with him working on things. They are memories that uplift and stir me to this day.
As a pastor and an author, I look at myself as one who helps others by handing them the tools they need for their journey as they follow Christ. The Be Encouraged series is a set of encouraging tools that will be of great value in the Christ-follower’s toolbox.
Thank you for allowing me to bring encouragement to you through another entry in the Be Encouraged series of devotions—Be Encouraged: A Daily Devotional, Volume 3. I do not take writing these devotions lightly. I believe that God lays them on my heart, and I know that I rely on Him for guidance as I write. In Be Encouraged: A Daily Devotional, Volume 3, you will find thirty days of encouragement that will uplift and stir the soul. Please know that each day is written from a heart that seeks the Lord daily.
In the days ahead, as we meet together in the pages of this book, I pray that you will be stirred to love and good works while being encouraged—knowing that the return of our Lord is drawing near. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV).
Excerpted from the introduction to the book, Be Encouraged: A Daily Devotional, Volume 3 by Gregory A. Johnson. Copyright © by Gregory A. Johnson. All rights reserved.