How To Deal With Discouragement And Disappointment

disappointed (3)

We have all experienced discouragement and disappointment.  The struggles and pain we experience create feelings of loss.  We lose confidence and enthusiasm and we become disheartened.  Here are some causes and cures guided by scripture to help you overcome discouragement and disappointment.

Here are some things that can cause discouragement and disappointment.

  • FATIGUE

Remember you are body, soul and spirit.  When you become physically or emotionally exhausted, discouragement can set in. When you are tired physically and emotionally your defenses are lowered and things can seem more overwhelming than they really are. This often occurs when you are halfway through a major project or problem and you get tired.

 “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” – Psalm 73:26

  • FRUSTRATION

Frustration sets in when we feel like we can’t change or achieve what we want.  When unfinished tasks or problems pile up, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. And when small or the unexpected things interrupt you and prevent you from accomplishing what you really need to do, your frustration can easily produce discouragement.

  • FAILURE

Sometimes, even with the best laid plans, everything falls apart — the project collapses — the deal falls through — no one shows up to the event. How do you react? Do you give in to self-pity? Do you blame others? As one man said, “Just when I think I can make ends meet — somebody moves the ends! That’s discouraging!

  • FEAR

Fear is part of most discouragement. The fear of criticism (What will they think?); the fear of responsibility (What if I can’t handle this?); and the fear of failure (What if I blow it?) can cause a major onset of the blues.

“We can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’”
—Hebrews 13:6

Here are fours things you can do to alleviate discouragement and disappointment.

Make the goal to know God and yourself more. When knowing God becomes more important to you, you will stop thinking about discouragements and persecutions; you will stop worrying altogether

  1. REST – If you need a break — take one! You’ll be more effective when you return to work. If you’re burning the candle at both ends, you’re not as bright as you think!
    • I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” – Jeremiah 31:25 
    • He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” – Isaiah 40:29 
  2. REORGANIZE – Discouragement doesn’t necessarily mean you are doing the wrong thing. It may just be that you are doing the right thing in the wrong way. Try a new approach. Shake things up a little.
    • “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:6
  3. REMEMBER GOD WILL HELP YOU – God will give you new energy, guidance and hope.  Just ask Him.
    • “but those who hope in the Lord
          will renew their strength.
      They will soar on wings like eagles;
          they will run and not grow weary,
          they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
  4. RESIST – I know it does not feel like it but, discouragement is a choice, you must learn to Fight Back!.  Do what’s right in spite of your feelings. No feeling lasts forever.  Do the right behaviors and the feelings will follow.

Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *