Discouragement

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinthians 5:7

            All of us have times when discouragement comes knocking. Finances, health, family, work, all have the power to pull us down at some time or another. Just like rain clouds cover the sun for a while, so discouragement can cause us to lose sight of God.

For those of us with a child on the autism spectrum, it seems that we frequently take one step forward and two steps back. Will my child ever talk? Will he grow out of these frequent meltdowns? Will she ever be able to live independently or hold down a job? The questions are many, the answers all too few.

What exactly is discouragement? It’s the loss of courage or confidence in the face of adversity. It is an emotion that every human being experiences at some time or another. It’s important to realize that it is not ‘unchristian’ to be discouraged. The devil loves this tool and it’s so simple for him to use; just whisper “God doesn’t really care,” or “you failed.” It’s what we do about it that determines the outcome. Will we succumb to the devil’s ploy and let ourselves fall into the pit of despair, or will be rebuke the evil one and stand firmly on the promises of God?

How can you conquer feelings of discouragement?

1.      Admit your doubts and questions to yourself and to God. He knows all about it, so why be ashamed to voice your feelings? Get it off your chest, unburden yourself on the Lord then leave it there, at the foot of the cross. You don’t need to carry it around with you like a back-breaking backpack. It won’t solve your problems and will just rob you of the peace and joy found in Jesus-Christ (1 Peter 5:7).

2.      Search the Scriptures. There are many wonderful promises about God’s love and faithfulness. Memorize these verses so the next time the devil comes knocking, you can rebuke him with Scripture. Trust me, he won’t hang around very long when you’re quoting God’s Word! (Matthew 4:1-11).

3.      Talk with someone, hopefully another Christian, and tell them what struggles you are having. It helps to get the help and advice of fellow believers, especially those who have been around for a while and have experienced the very struggles you are going through. Ask them to pray with you and for you (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

4.      Seek professional help when needed. Some issues such as finances, child behaviors, marriage struggles, need the guidance of someone who is a counselor or a pastor. Don’t hesitate to look for help. It might relieve some of the stress you are feeling.

God is faithful. He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). When it feels like you are at the end of your rope, you just might be surprised to find Jesus there. For He holds both ends of the rope and will never let you fall.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

About the author:

I am the daughter of TEAM missionaries (The Evangelical Alliance Mission). I was raised in France, attended French schools, obtained my French Baccalaureate then attended Emmaus Bible College in Switzerland where I graduated with a degree in Bible and Theology.

I now live in the Missouri Ozarks with my husband Len and my three sons, one of whom has been diagnosed with Asperger’s.

I am a member of the Ozarks’ Chapter of American Christian Writers and a founding member of the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild.