Someone might ask me, “Hey, Fady, do you ever get discouraged while you minister among Muslims?”
Yes, yes, and yes.
But what is it that encourages me to keep on going? Why don’t you give up? Those are good questions. For me personally, there are a few things that really discourage me. One thing in particular that I am often tempted to be discouraged in is my own flaws and sinfulness.
Self-debasing does not equal Christ-exalting.
Perhaps, I am my own worst critique…? But one thing is for sure: I am really thankful for other godly men who encourage me and point me to Christ.
These words from Hebrews 12:1-2 are words that I often heard from a good friend of mine:
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
I would constantly hear, “Fady, stop looking at yourself and focusing on your own problems. Always look to the Lord Jesus Christ because in him we find joy and peace and hope!”
This little bit of encouragement, after being repeatedly sounded in my ears, continues to stay with me when I am tempted to be discouraged by my circumstances or by myself. Look to Jesus!
[posted by Fady]