The Candid Christian

Today, I had a conversation with an old friend—one of those honest, grounding conversations that stay with you long after it ends.

There was a time when we were both doing well. Progress was visible, plans were unfolding, and life felt steady. Then, in different ways and at different times, we both walked through trying seasons—moments that tested our faith, resilience, and understanding of God.

Now, thankfully, things are looking up.

Not because everything is perfect, but because God has been faithful. The conversation became less about what we lost and more about how God sustained us—and how we can encourage ourselves in Him as we move forward.

“David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.”— 1 Samuel 30:6 (KJV)

Encouragement Rooted in Humility

When you come out of a hard season, humility becomes a quiet companion. You realize that strength isn’t something you manufacture—it’s something God supplies.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”— James 4:10 (NIV)

As we talked, there was no boasting—only gratitude and reverence for how God carried us. Success feels different when you know what it took to survive.

Prayer: Lord, keep our hearts humble as You lift us. Let our progress never distance us from You.

Gratitude for God—and for the People Who Stood With Us

Encouraging one another also meant pausing to thank God—not just for the turnaround, but for the people He used in the darkest moments.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”— Psalm 103:2 (KJV)

We spoke about friends who prayed, checked in, gave counsel, or simply stayed present. And we made a quiet commitment: to be that same support for others.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Prayer: Lord, thank You for everyone You used to strengthen us. Teach us to show up with the same grace, patience, and love.

Praying for God’s Covering as We Move Forward

When things start improving, wisdom becomes just as important as hope. We need God’s covering to navigate new opportunities without fear or missteps.

“The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life.”— Psalm 121:7 (NIV)

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.”— James 1:5 (NKJV)

We prayed not just for open doors, but for discernment, mental strength, grace, and understanding—so we can walk wisely into what God is doing next.

Prayer: Lord, shield us. Grant us wisdom, discernment, and clarity of mind. Strengthen us to navigate challenges with peace and confidence.

Standing Guard Against Going Backward

Hope doesn’t erase caution. We prayed intentionally that we wouldn’t return to old patterns, fears, or limitations from past seasons.

“So if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall.”— 1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)

“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.”— Proverbs 4:18 (NIV)

Encouragement sometimes sounds like reminding each other: God has brought us too far to go back.

Prayer: Lord, let Your will be done. Keep us moving forward. Guard our hearts and minds so we don’t retreat into fear or familiarity.

Final Reflection: Hope With Wisdom, Faith With Gratitude

That conversation wasn’t just a catch-up—it was a reminder that God restores, rebuilds, and renews. When things start looking up, encouragement becomes a form of stewardship.

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”— Hebrews 10:23 (NKJV)

May we continue to encourage ourselves in the Lord. May humility anchor us.May gratitude guide us.

And may God’s grace keep us moving forward—stronger, wiser, and at peace in Jesus mighty name.