Discouraged and Doubtful, but not Defeated
There will times when we are disappointed, doubtful, and discouraged. (Ecclesiastes 3:11-13, NIV; John 20:24-31, NKJV)
One of the main causes of discouragement is loss of confidence. God is always more concerned about our character than our comfort. Sometimes discouragement is caused from being overwhelmed with problems and pressures. Problems and pressures can drain us spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Another great cause of discouragement are the lies of Satan. (John 10:10, NKJV)
2 Examples of Satan’s lies:
People hurt me. (No, hurting people hurt people) (Ephesians 6:12, CEV; Ephesians 6:13, NKJV) God has left me. (Hebrews 13:6-5, NKJV) Once you’re saved, God can’t leave you because His Holy Spirit lives in you.
Jesus wants to encourage you.
When Jesus wants to come encourage you, nothing can stop Him. Jesus is trying to encourage you, open your eyes and let Him in. (Revelation 3:20, NKJV) Today, Jesus is not going to allow you to touch Him physically, but He has proved over and over without a doubt that He is the Savior who died for us.
How to go from discouragement to encouragement.
You have to believe Jesus is your Lord and Savior. (Matthew 19:26, NKJV) You have to believe Jesus can take what looks like the worst things in our life and turns them around for something good. You have to have regular fellowship with Him. (Revelation 3:20, NKJV; John 15:7, NKJV) You have to confess all known sin in order to remove all guilt and condemnation. (1 John 1:7-10, NKJV; Romans 8:1, NKJV)
