Discouragement

A time to break down, and a time to build up (Ecclesiastes 3:3b).

We as Christians enjoy encouragement-- we all can share in great times when our faith is being built up (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:23). Where there are peaks, however, there are valleys also; if we enjoy encouragement, we must also recognize that there will be times of discouragement.

We can get discouraged for many reasons. If we stumble and sin, we know that we need to get up, repent, and confess before God (1 John 1:9) but it can be discouraging, especially if we keep struggling with a sin that besets us (Hebrews 12:2). We can easily become weary of the battle, discouraged because we seem to keep fighting and fighting and not getting far (cf. Ephesians 6:10-18). Constant rejection, especially if we are trying to show our friends and neighbors the truth of the Gospel, also discourages. Unfortunately, brethren themselves, as opposed to being a source of encouragement, can often discourage, either intentionally or unintentionally. There always seems to be plenty of sources of discouragement. What are we to do?

We can start by thanking God for all of His blessings (Ephesians 5:20). This may seem odd to do when we are discouraged, but when we begin to consider how greatly blessed we are, having all spiritual blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3), and all kinds of material blessings also. This should give us confidence and hope, realizing that this "slight momentary affliction" is little in comparison to the "eternal weight of glory" for us in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 4:17).

We can then begin to focus on the positive. As it is written in Philippians 4:8:

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.