"And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God." 1 Samuel 30:6

A basic truth every Christian must come to know and understand is that God doesn't interfere with the emotions/will of any man. He isn't such to enforce his will on man. Even though He might suggest a pathway for you to follow; at the end you will be the one to make the choice.

So even when you pass through trying times like David did in the above text; God will not decide for you what your countenance should be like neither will He enforce a joyful countenance on you. You are the one to decide. God definitely wills that you be joyful and encouraged despite the challenges you face; but He leaves it to you to encourage yourself. Encouraging and strengthening yourself in your walk with God is your responsibility and no one else's. It is an act you have to consciously take up.

Encouraging yourself and how well you do it, is a determinant factor of how quick you get out of that situation. Learn to talk yourself up and out of that situation; and into the glory ahead. There's a glory beyond that circumstance-choose to foresee that only. Meditate on God's promises to you, do some talking sessions over your life and you will see yourself make tremendous progress.

DECLARATION:
No matter the challenges I face, I remain joyful and encouraged; knowing that God will not forsake me. A greater glory awaits me.

SCRIPTURAL REFERENCE:
Habakkuk 3:17-18

Culled from the Ambassadors Diet (A Daily Devotional) https://www.facebook.com/AmbassadorsWordDiet