When we look at the world around us and at the circumstances in our own lives and families, it can all look very discouraging. Discouragement seems to be at epidemic levels because of everything we see and hear. Let’s look at what discouragement really is.

Discouragement is defined as a loss of confidence, enthusiasm or courage, a feeling that we no longer have the confidence, enthusiasm or courage to do something. Discouragement is an enemy that is both subtle in its attack and powerful in its ability to stop us from any forward movement in our lives.

Discouragement enters when we start evaluating our lives based upon information compiled by our senses – what we see and hear and feel as we look at our circumstances. It pops up when we don’t see the results we’d hoped for or we experience setbacks to our plans.

Some major causes of discouragement are disappointment, fatigue, pain and sickness, frustration, failure, fear, worry, and focusing on losses. These feelings cause us to take our eyes off of God’s faithfulness and promises. As the enemy comes to discourage, to remove courage from our hearts, we tend to withdraw into doubt and unbelief, which is sin.

We need to base our lives not on what we see around us but instead on our position in Christ. We must trust God and stand on His promises in spite of how things appear or how we feel. We need to believe that God’s ways and plans are best and His timing is perfect. He knows exactly what we need and exactly when we need it, and He is faithful to do it.

If we have opened the door to discouragement through doubt, unbelief, disappointment, negativity, worry or fear, there are some things we can do to obtain the victory over it. We must start by repenting of taking our eyes off of the Lord and looking at circumstances through eyes of doubt and unbelief. Then we must shift our attitudes to pray and be positive, and cultivate thankful hearts that stand on God’s promises to us.

Let’s look at some scriptures to see what God says about discouragement and overcoming it. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He delivers those who are discouraged.” We can depend on Him to heal our broken hearts and deliver us.

Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” He also tells us that we can do everything through Christ who gives us strength (Philippians 4:13). 

God tells us in Isaiah 41:10, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” As these scriptures show, God commands us to not be discouraged. It’s more than a harmless feeling. Discouragement leads us to sin against God by doubting His goodness to us.

As we practice turning our eyes back upon the Lord and look to Him to help us gain the victory over discouragement, He promises to give us all the help we need. 

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

Hope Ministries is a Christian counseling center, and we are here to help. If you would like to speak confidentially with someone, give us a call at 845-482-5300.