How’d They Do It?
Remember Me
Psalms 40:1-3 (NKJV)
I waited patiently for the Lord; And he inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth, praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, and will trust in the Lord.
- Discouragement and Depression are an emotional attack, not a sin.
Psalms 42:5
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Isaiah 43:1-3 (NKJV)
But now says the Lord, who created you O Jacob, and he who formed you O Israel, fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
What is Discouragement?
- Dissatisfaction with the past.
- Distaste of the present.
- Distrust of the future.
Hebrews 10:23 (NKJV)
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.
Causes of Discouragement
- Exaggeration of the journey.
Psalms 73:2-5 (NIV)
But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills.
- Exhaustion from the journey.
Psalms 6:6 NIV
I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flooded my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears.
- Guilt after the journey.
1 Chronicles 21:8 NIV
Then David said to God, I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing.
- Destroying discouragement.
Romans 8:1-2 NIV
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Action Step:
Establish a connection with God and with God’s people.