The Lord told a discouraged preacher, "Be not afraid, but speak... for I have much people in this city" (Acts 18:9-10). Paul was fearful, but the Lord's word encouraged his heart and made him zealous to preach the gospel. It is a great incentive to know that God has a chosen people who must hear the gospel and who will be quickened by the Spirit and brought to faith in Christ. Is election unto salvation a discouragement to gospel preaching? On the contrary – this is our great encouragement.