Scripture Reading: Luke 24:13-35
We read in this passage about a couple discouraged disciples. Like many people today, they had given up!
So often, in the church, we speak of the “good old days” as being a time that cannot be repeated. It is as if we think God was more alive back then than He is NOW!
I believe the biggest enemy of the church today just might be discouragement. Some folks get down, tired, and low, even though God has proven Himself time and time again.
In today’s text, we can see how discouragement CAN guide our steps. The disciples’ Lord was dead. His body was missing, and they were having a hard time keeping their heads up!
In verse 14, we see they began to dwell on the past. They became so focused on the past that they became blinded to His presence with them NOW.
So often, in the church, we speak of the “good old days” as being a time that cannot be repeated. It is as if we think God was more alive back then than He is NOW!
Because of this, their senses, like many of ours, were deadened by discouragement. They were dead in their steps just as, in many churches, they are dead in their seats!
Their discouragement was detectable by others. Jesus did not ask the disciples in verse 17, “How are you fellas doing?” Jesus knew how they were doing because it showed all over their faces!
When you are discouraged, others can see it. Maybe you stop hanging around to share with others after service, stop shaking hands, stop smiling, or stop encouraging others. Sometimes when we become discouraged, it dominates us and we waste our energy and time pitying ourselves.
Praise the Lord there is GOOD NEWS! In verse 31, we read that their “eyes were opened.” Friend, it is time we OPEN OUR EYES, recognize our blessings, and get “on the ball” to serve our RISEN SAVIOR!!