Sundown Devotional: Choose to Encourage Yourself
MsDora, former teacher and Christian counselor presents practical Scriptural principles for joyful everyday living.
Choose to Encourage Yourself
The Devotional
David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30:6 (KJV)
Despair and depression are no strangers to Christian believers. It is possible to find ourselves overwhelmed by disappointment and loss; hemmed in within situations that we cannot control; helpless when we cry out and it seems that nobody hears. We sometimes lack the awareness to see God in the circumstances; and we may choose to give up, but we can also make the effort to get up from underneath to above the circumstances.
David returned home to find the town destroyed by fire. All the wives and children, including his, were taken captive. David cried until all his tears were used up, then he encouraged himself. According to the newer translations, he “found strength in the Lord his God.” (NLT)
We are not likely to remain discouraged when we take the steps to encourage ourselves by:
- reading stories of David (1 Samuel 30) and others like Him who found their strength in God;
- listening to encouragement from others through sermons and songs (Ephesians 5:19);
- meditating on God’s love songs in our nighttime devotionals (Psalm 42:8);
- visualizing His everlasting arms underneath (Deuteronomy 33:27) protecting us from hitting rock bottom;
- repeating out loud His promise to strengthen, help and uphold us (Isaiah 41:10);
- rendezvousing with nature and becoming inspired by His handiwork (Psalm 19:1);
- counting our blessings, all of which come from God (James 1:17);
- sharing the benefits like David did when he regained his strength (1 Samuel 30: 22-25).
These are all good habits which can help us pull ourselves out of the doldrums when everyone else is preoccupied. We can be the one to change the mood in our homes, on our jobs, in our communities if we know how to encourage ourselves. Let’s practice and become experts at encouragement!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being the Source of our joy. Please help us make it a habit to find our strength in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Count your blessings.
Ten Quotes About Encouraging Yourself
- “The Bible says that David encouraged himself in the Lord…He had lost everything. He had lost his wives. He had lost the loyalty and support of his men. But when folk let you down, you can still turn to God.” ―Charles E. Blake
- “With God, you are stronger than your struggles and more fierce than your fears. God provides comfort and strength to those who trust in Him. Be encouraged, keep standing, and know that everything's going to be alright.” ―Germany Kent
- "There is not always going to be other people there to offer encouragement. Those people who are only able to achieve things when cheered on by other people will not be able to do much in life." ―AlcoholRehab
- “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.” ―Ellen G.White
- “We can only reach the highest height, if we encourage each other.” ―Lailah Gifty Akita
- “When hardships keep coming back, do not take it personal. It's just life.” ―Naide P Obiang
- “If you're stuck in a puddle, it means there's higher ground all around you, you just have to step onto it.” ―Emilyann Girdner
- “Keep encouraging yourself that you are good enough as a workman of God created for every good work one earth prepared for you before the world begun.” ―Israelmore Ayivor
- “When we are discouraged it is common to turn to other people, television, or some kind of escape. This is . . . temporary anesthesia but not a solution or real deliverance. We must . . . pursue the presence of God through meaningful prayer and His word.” ―Daniel Henderson
- “When you feel distressed and discouraged, remember how many times that God has delivered you, and you will be encouraged.” ―Dr. Kreighton L. Chan
Remember how many times that God has delivered you, and you will be encouraged.
More Sundown Devotionals
- Sundown Devotional: Dance Like God Is Watching
Genuine praise seeks expression. Singing, shouting or dancing can happen whenever and wherever we take time to count our blessings. Let's worry less, praise more and include the dance. - Sundown Devotional: Waiting Bravely and Patiently
In Psalm 27, David begs his soul to wait patiently on the Lord, and to be brave about it. What does bravery have to do with waiting?
© 2014 Dora Weithers
Comments
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on May 15, 2020:
Thanks, Eunice. Pleased that you find some encouragement. Encouragement boomerangs.
Eunice O'Garro on May 15, 2020:
Great points they are very uplifting and inspiring. Thank you Teacher Dora
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on February 09, 2018:
Than you, McKenna. Awesome that you manage your depression instead of allowing it to control you. Thanks a million for sharing.
McKenna Meyers on February 08, 2018:
After battling depression most of my life, I know this is spot-on advice, Dora. I, too, use music to pick me up when I'm low. I especially like music from my childhood like the Jackson 5, the Bee Gees, and Flashdance. I remember roller-skating around our garage as a kid listening to those songs so it makes me feel happy and energetic.
Being a caretaker can be such a lonely and thankless job and so many of us have been in that position. Your mom is lucky to have you, Dora. As always, thanks for the inspiration. Take care.
Richard Ricky Hale from West Virginia on January 19, 2016:
Count your blessings! I couldn't agree more. Very helpful tips MsDora.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 17, 2016:
Glad you enjoyed it, Rabadi. Thanks for your encouragement.
O from New York on January 17, 2016:
Counting your blessings to me is so important because we don't know what we have until we lose it. I enjoyed this read, great hub once again MsDora.
-Rabadi
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 13, 2016:
Paul, it's not too late to add Bible Reading to your New Year's resolutions, if you think it will help. Thanks for your encouragement.
Paul Richard Kuehn from Udorn City, Thailand on January 12, 2016:
These are all great ideas for self-encouragement, &MsDora , which I enjoyed reading. If I started reading the Bible, I know I would receive a lot more encouragement. I am sharing this hub with HP followers.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 05, 2016:
Kiddiecreations, counting my blessings is my very favorite. Glad that you were inspired.
Nicole K on January 05, 2016:
I loved those points of encouragement. You've got some great ideas here! Counting your blessings and singing away the blues are a couple of my favorites that you highlighted. Thanks for the great inspiration!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 03, 2016:
Mary enjoy your winter flowers. Thank you for sharing and Happy New Year!
Mary Norton from Ontario, Canada on January 03, 2016:
I can relate to your environment having grown up in wide gardens and beaches. We just bought lots of flowers to lift up the rental we have right now for the winter. Makes the place more like home. Thanks for all the tips.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on December 31, 2015:
Deborah, glad you find my tips useful. A Happy New Year to you!
Deborah Reno from First Wyoming, then THE WORLD on December 31, 2015:
Thanks for these tips. I often struggle with feelings of unworthiness and discouragement. I will definitely use your suggestions.
Namaste
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on December 30, 2015:
Thanks, Geri. Your mention of the plant made me smile. Yes, I think God talks encouragement through various scenarios in our day. Happy New Year to you!
Geri McClymont on December 30, 2015:
A very encouraging article on self encouragement. It is so important to take care of oneself, especially when one is caring for others. Caretaker burnout is real and unless the caretaker takes care of him or herself, he or she can't really take care of the other person properly. Thank you for these very practical habits and for Jer. 17:8. I also appreciated the humor in your account of talking to your plants and was glad to hear your plant's roots were intact when the papaya tree fell on it. It's as if God was encouraging you even through that experience.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on December 30, 2015:
Good habit, Swalia, to count your blessings! It improves your overall health.
Shaloo Walia from India on December 30, 2015:
Lovely hub! My favorite way is to count my blessings. Writing in my gratitude journal daily makes me feel blessed for all that I have,
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on August 30, 2015:
So happy that you liked it, Jgshorebird. Enjoy your trophies and the memories of the achievements that brought them to you.
jgshorebird on August 29, 2015:
Dusting Off Old Trophies...I do that on occasion. Enjoyed this hub.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on April 21, 2015:
Shanmarie, we all get entangled in life and forget how to stay afloat. Thanks for affirming our need to remember.
Shannon Henry from Texas on April 20, 2015:
I love this hub. It rings true on many levels, though it can be forgotten at times. Just the reminder is encouraging!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on February 18, 2015:
Mary, "Sing the clouds away" is actually a line from a song and yes,, it works. Thanks for reading and commenting.
Mary Norton from Ontario, Canada on February 17, 2015:
Sing the clouds away. Love this. Will definitely do this.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 28, 2015:
Chitrangada, thanks for your affirmation, and for underscoring the necessity of will power. I appreciate the vote also.
Chitrangada Sharan from New Delhi, India on January 28, 2015:
This is an excellent hub with some great tips and suggestions!
I agree with your views in this hub that self encouragement is the best encouragement. It is our own will power which can lead us or motivate us, to move ahead and be successful.
Thanks for sharing this engaging hub with great ideas! Voted up!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on January 05, 2015:
Thanks, Liam. Glad you like my article.
liamhubpages on January 05, 2015:
Great hub and great ideas, thank you for that!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 19, 2014:
Bill, thanks for taking the time to catch up. I've got some of that to do too. I appreciate your comment.
William Kovacic from Pleasant Gap, PA on November 17, 2014:
More good advice and ideas - it seems that once again I'm not receiving notifications from my favorite writers, so I'm playing catch-up as I go back to see what I've missed. You've blessed me again!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 15, 2014:
Hi Teaches, thanks for your input. Keep singing!
Dianna Mendez on November 14, 2014:
I use many of your suggestions here to chase away the blues and to encourage myself. I sing around the house most often and it's amazing how it lifts your spirit. Thanks for sharing these wonderful ideas. God bless you.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 10, 2014:
Elsie, what a great summary statement. "Life is good." Good words with which to encourage ourselves. Thanks for sharing.
Elsie Hagley from New Zealand on November 10, 2014:
Beautiful article, all so very true and helpful. I count my blessings every morning that I wake, it's great to see a new day.
I'm blessed living in the country, animals keep my body alert, the birds singing in the tree fills my heart with love and contentment.
Life is good.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 10, 2014:
Romeos, I like your spirit of appreciation and gratitude. Thanks for your input.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 10, 2014:
Manatita, the islands are still very beautiful. Don't miss them, visit them. Thanks for your comment.
Romeos Quill from Lincolnshire, England on November 09, 2014:
Another great Hub MsDora with an uplifting message.
When I hear about people praying for things which I'm already in receipt of, that is encouraging to appreciate those things that may be taken for granted and a reality check to pay more attention.
Clickety-click, Up, up and away!
R.Q.
manatita44 from london on November 09, 2014:
Extremely useful tips: walking, poetry, u-tube. Nice quotes, and well-written Hub. Miss the simplicity of the Islands. Have a great Sunday, Dee.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 09, 2014:
Right on, Marie. Glad to know that you are the encourager in the family. In time, they will see the value of it, and will learn from you. Thank you for sharing.
Marie Flint from Jacksonville, FL USA on November 09, 2014:
Beautiful message, Dora. Thank you for taking the time to really think about those things that uplift you.
My family is a bit like yours because appreciation is rarely expressed, and when I give it, I'm regarded as weird. That does't stop me, though.
Voted Useful, Awesome, and Beautiful. Sharing on Google+ and Face Book. ***
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 09, 2014:
Satendra, glad you like the article. Thanks for reading and commenting.
Satendra Saini from India on November 09, 2014:
very nice job thanks for sharing such a wonderful hub with us.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 08, 2014:
Heidi, thanks for reading and commenting. Hope you got some ideas for your own self encouragement; we all need it.
Heidi Thorne from Chicago Area on November 08, 2014:
Totally agree! Sometimes those around you may be discouraging. Not going to change them. So you're only choice is to be self-encouraging. And if you work alone a lot of the time (like me and many other small business folks), you only have yourself. Thank you for the self-boosting message!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 08, 2014:
Jo, if it were not for discouragement, there would be no need for encouragement. So we can learn from each other how to help ourselves. I appreciate your comment.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 08, 2014:
Hendrika, thanks for stopping by. I hope that these ideas will help you create some that are practical and helpful for you.
Jo Alexis-Hagues from Lincolnshire, U.K on November 07, 2014:
MsDora, this is exceptional work. I love your ideas for self encouragement. I'm pretty good at discouraging myself, so it's great to learn about self encouragement. I read you comment on DDE's page, it's lovely to see what you did with the inspiration.
Hendrika from Pretoria, South Africa on November 07, 2014:
Thank you for this, we all need some encouragement from time to time. I often find it very hard to encourage myself and I really need to work on it.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Denise, you're very kind. You also share some empowering concepts, and I hope we both can be the best of who God made us to be. Thanks for your encouragement.
Denise W Anderson from Bismarck, North Dakota on November 06, 2014:
Your experience of felling the papaya tree and the plant speaking back to you spoke to my heart. There are many times in my life, when I have done things without thinking, and thankfully, the Lord protects me from the consequences of my own actions! You are a wonderful one to give encouragement to others, and it is very evident by your loyal following and ready comments that lift the spirits. I hope that I can be more like you!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Michael, you fully understand self encouragement. Go on encouraging yourself. Thanks for sharing.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Ignugent, glad you found some encouragement in my article. Thanks for your comment.
Michael-Milec on November 06, 2014:
Great idea " Self Encouragement " - encouraging myself when no one else is around, plus you are listing many helpful how it might be done. Like "Talk to Self " - isn't sign of insanity when I hear myself saying 'com-on Michael, you can do it better than that'- or even encouraging my body for living more fully for the rest of my earthly journey " we are not skipping daily exercise or avoid working in the garden , just because you do not feel like..."
Voted up and useful.
ignugent17 on November 06, 2014:
Wonderful MsDora and it is really encouraging. We sometimes feel discourage in life and your hub is really like a fresh air that encourages that reader to do something.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. :-)
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Venkatachari, happy for you that you find the article helpful. Thanks for reading and sharing.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Jackie, it seems that self encouragement is an ongoing responsibility. Thanks for your kind input.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 06, 2014:
Ologsinquito, you're right on. Thanks for your input.
Venkatachari M from Hyderabad, India on November 05, 2014:
Very inspiring article. I like all these points. I follow some of them already and feel much satisfaction and encouragement. I shall adopt the other ones also to get more encouraged.
Voted up and thanks for sharing.
Jackie Lynnley from the beautiful south on November 05, 2014:
It is good to be reminded to seek encouragement because it is not just there waiting for us is it? You have some wonderful was to encourage yourself and I will remember those to seek some of my own when needed. Wonderful message as always. ^+
ologsinquito from USA on November 05, 2014:
I think counting your blessings and being content with what you have is what it's all about, and you can be happy this way. Also, doing kind things for others can increase your own happiness.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Dr. Bill, so glad you stopped by. Thanks for reading and commenting.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Yes, Sheila. Sometimes we have to search for encouragement, because it is our responsibility to encourage ourselves. Thank for input.
William Leverne Smith from Hollister, MO on November 05, 2014:
Thanks, so much, for these wonderful suggestions. I do remember most, but one or two I forget from time to time. It nice to be reminded. Thank you, again, for sharing! ;-)
sheilamyers on November 05, 2014:
Your hub about encouragement is very encouraging. There are many days all I hear are the negative things about my life and it's nice to know there are ways to get those encouraging words even if we have to read them in a book or hear them in an inspirational video.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Mona, we've all bee there. Glad these tips seem helpful. Be encouraged, today.
Mona Sabalones Gonzalez from Philippines on November 05, 2014:
We all have times when we feel down, but your tips are very helpful for self encouragement, especially when there is no one to talk to or vent to. Great article, ms. Dora.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Susan, glad you think so. So kind of you to let me know.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Suzette happy to meet someone who do similar activities. We do well to encourage ourselves.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Elle, inspiration is one of the things we share here, and you're part of it. Thanks for your kind words.
Susan Deppner from Arkansas USA on November 05, 2014:
Awesome list!
Suzette Walker from Taos, NM on November 05, 2014:
This is an excellent article. Your suggestions are great ones. I have done many of your suggestions and they do help in motivating me. On thing a for sure no matter how many people are around us , we are basically alone and need to be able to motivate ourselves. I love the one where our relative says no one likes you. I can't believe how horribly rude and awful that person is and I lov your response. I always keep cards and momentos from his who like me and look at them from time to time. Very interesting and informative hub!
elle64 from Scandinavia on November 05, 2014:
Thanks a lot ,you are such an inspiration to me.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Lori, dear sweet lady, we think alike because we go the same Source for ideas, encouragement and everything else. Thanks for sharing that pastor's story and for being such a good support.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Karen, welcome to my HubCircle. Glad that you were encouraged by the article. See you around!
Lori Colbo from United States on November 05, 2014:
Great stuff here Dora, darling. We think alike. There is a well known pastor and evangelist here in the states who lost his 33 year old son six years ago. Three weeks after it happened he preached and evangelistic message in sports stadium. She shared his tragedy and grief, but also shared that that night, and during the three weeks since it happened, he preaches to himself as well as others. He stuck to what he knew - God'sword, the richest source of encouragement one can ever find.
I do all the things you mentioned. Great minds think alike, eh friend?
Karen Kay from Jackson, MS on November 05, 2014:
Lovely compilation, Dora! Thank you so much. You have definitely brightened up my day! (and I needed it this morning.... )
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Bill, thanks for your input. Perhaps helping others helps because it takes our focus away from our own pain.
Bill Holland from Olympia, WA on November 05, 2014:
I love these suggestions, Dora. I have found that when I get outside of my head, and concentrate on doing good for others, then I improve in the process. Funny how that works. :)
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Devika, I read your article and read your ideas for encouragement. Thanks for commenting.
Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on November 05, 2014:
I encouraged myself during all times especially the worst of times and expressed that in my work. Helpful answers and I will definitely keep this in mind.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Peg, thanks for your affirmations. I appreciate your kind words.
Peg Cole from Northeast of Dallas, Texas on November 05, 2014:
You serve as a beacon of hope and optimism for others who need your light. I love the way you handle lifting yourself up when you need it. Taking care of a loved one is one of the most important and valuable tasks we handle, yet sometimes, it is tough.
I can truly appreciate what you said about the view, before and after. For many years I had an unobstructed view of the sunrise and sunset. In the past few years, buildings have obscured the beauty of those daily blessings. You're so right. It is important to change our positions when we can't see.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Eric, thanks for your input, and all the best trying these ideas.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Dear Beautiful Sally, be encouraged, yourself. Your kind comments always encourage me and I appreciate you greatly.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Frank, I always appreciate your blessings. Be blessed also and have a great day!
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Faith, thank you for sharing. Your idea is a great one because the entire battle is for the mind. If we can keep the thoughts negative, we surely would be encouraged.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Thanks, Flourish. I really had to encourage myself then, and I think it worked.
Dora Weithers (author) from The Caribbean on November 05, 2014:
Words, it means a lot to me to receive a HOTD nomination from you. Thank you very much.
Eric Dierker from Spring Valley, CA. U.S.A. on November 05, 2014:
Excellent advise Dora I made a note of all of them and will try to remember to do them more consistently. Thank you.
Sally Gulbrandsen from Norfolk on November 05, 2014:
MsDora,
You nailed it with this one. Your writing always speaks to me, encourages me and it is my hope that this comment makes you feel both valued and encouraged. I always look forward to reading your Hubs, thank you.
Sally.
Frank Atanacio from Shelton on November 05, 2014:
actions of encouragement spoke louder than words.. and your actions can easily be seen here.. bless you MsDora...:)
Faith Reaper from southern USA on November 05, 2014:
What a wonderful hub here on encouragement and you certainly have the best methods to encourage oneself! I really love that passage from Jeremiah. Thank you for including it here. This is a great morning devotion for me this morning before I head off to work in the city.
What helps me to stay encouraged is for me to be mindful as to my thoughts. When I realize I am being a bit negative, I think of what my mind has been thinking on, and soon realize I need to refocus my thoughts to what He would have us to think on ... those things that are true, lovely, good, worthy of praise, excellent and so on.
Voted up ++++ tweeting, pinning and sharing
God bless you. Have a lovely day and thank you for the encouragement.
FlourishAnyway from USA on November 05, 2014:
This is inspiring and useful. I particularly enjoyed reading how you handled the situation when a relative expressed that no one supposedly liked you. Great way to handle that.
Al Wordlaw from Chicago on November 05, 2014:
Those were 8 great inspirational ideas MsDora, You should definitely compile a book of all you write. The world could use your wisdom. You have great music videos here as well. The flowers were so lovely. Your plant survived the crush on them. You're an inspiration to the community.This should be HUB OF THE DAY!
