Overcoming Discouragement

The dictionary defines discouragement as losing spirit or morale. It also means being deprived of courage and confidence. Discouragement comes when needs and expectations are unmet; when troubles and trials comes; due to lack of spiritual fulfillment; through demonic activities, etc. Discouragement (if unchecked) makes people victims of afflictions and underacheivement in life (Proverbs 17:22, 15:13). Notable men of God such as Elijah, John the Baptist, King David and even Apostle Paul all suffered at some point in time from discouragement. Though discouragement happens to all, many never come out of the valley of discouragement. Below are some tips to overcome this monster called discouragement:

1. Submit to Jesus: Hear Him: " .....In this world, you will have troubles, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33). Bring Jesus onboard of your boat if you haven't done so. Your boat will not capsize if He is in there with you. He is the true Burden-bearer, and the very present Help in trouble (Psalm 46:1-5).

2. Count your blessings: Stop focusing on your losses. We all have this habit of focusing on what God has not done and fail to see the numerous blessings He has bestowed on us. Take a sheet of paper and itemize like David did in Psalm 103:1-5 all the blessings, both big and small God has bestowed on you.

3. Give Encouragement: It is a spiritual law that the best time to give something is when you lack that thing. Find someone to pour encouragement into and you will be pleasantly amazed how quickly your spirit will be lifted. Sow the seed of encouragement today and reap the harvest of joy and fulfillment. (Proverbs 11:24-25, Luke 6:38).

4. Practise self talk: This is one proven strategy to beat discouragement unknown to many. King David spoke words of encouragement to himself, "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, the help of My countenance and My God." (Psalm 42:5,11 ; Psalm 43:5). Speak faith-filled words to yourself.

5. Understand God's modus operandi: God's intention is to build character and stability in you. Raw gold is passed through intense heat before it comes out as pure gold. Every good product passes through a process. Your challenges and unpleasant situations are intended by God to bring out the juice in you. Remember: No squeeze, No juice. Please meditate: 1 Peter 5:10

CONCLUSION: Don't stay for another minute in the valley of discouragement. Come up to the mountain of strength and encouragement. The sun will shine on you on the mountain!

Ade(Gboyega) ESAN
www.rccgpittsburgh.net