Discouragement is a fact of the Christian life. Many know this truth all too well. And even more feel the need to hide it when it comes. How often are we asked, “How are you?” only to answer with the standard, acceptable Christian response, “I’m fine”? But the fact is we’re not fine; we’re not even close. Discouragement is painful and can make you feel worthless. Discouragement never respects your time or calendar. Discouragement can make you feel like you’re alone. Discouragement is the single most dangerous place for a Christian to be because we find ourselves complacent and easily swayed into sinful behavior.
I think God knew that discouragement would eventually come to all who would seek to follow Him. That’s why the Bible is riddled with stories of discouraged people. From Adam and Eve to Abraham to Joseph to Moses to King David to Elijah to Daniel and even to Jesus and His disciples; nearly every major Biblical character, at one time or another, faced discouragement in their life and ministry.
But there is hope in discouragement. There is hope in knowing that everyone goes through discouraging times. And because of this, we don’t need to hide behind masks that falsely show the world that all is ok. We can and should talk about our discouragement. Find someone that you can talk to and air out what you’re going through because how quickly discouragement leads to bitterness. And always remember that Jesus promised “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 NASB)
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