(1) The Role of Faith in Defeating Discouragement

(Note:  This is the first in a seires of posts on defeating discouragment with faith)

One of the common thoughts associated with discouragement is the question, “'What's the point?" We see little progress or even failure, and we think, “What's the point of putting out the effort if we are wasting our energies?" At the heart of discouragement is a negative view of some situation we are facing and a dismal view of the future with little hope of progress or success.

The loss of hope and a negative outlook are major aspects of discouragement. And faith is the foundation of hope. So, faith plays a major role in defeating discouragement.

Discouragement is rooted in the beliefs we have regarding our challenges. Discouragement is a result of the belief that what I am dealing with is only harmful to me and blocks me from experiencing peace, happiness, and success. The belief of discouragement is that it's robbing me of my time and energy and there's no benefit in it. It shouldn't have to be this hard. No good is going to come from this.

Discouragement is a result of the belief that there is no point in trying or, even if we do try, the situation will not improve and there will not be a positive outcome. We think this will never end, no matter what I try, it just seems to continue and so, I can never have hope of peace, rest, and joy. We believe that we can't handle the situation, it’s too hard, it’s too big.

Because all these thoughts are contrary to the teaching of God's Word, discouragement is a result of the failure to believe God and His promises. At it's core, discouragement is an issue of belief. Victory over discouragement is all about faith. Look what David says in Psalm 27 about the connection between discouragement and faith in the goodness and greatness of God.

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. 14Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.  (Psalm 27:13-14 NAU)

Look at it. “I would have despaired unless I had believed.” Believed what? “Believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord.” And what does David have to say to you and me based on his victory over discouragement? Read it again and let David’s encouragement reach your heart.

Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.

The idea of waiting here is not just the idea of inaction. It is the idea of stillness, patience, and trust. And what is to be our heart’s focus as we are still? The Lord. Wait on the Lord . . . Yahweh. Wait for the Lord . . . God of all creation . . . the one and only . . . infinite . . . almighty . . . all-wise . . . righteous . . . just . . . merciful . . .gracious . . . loving . . . perfect God. And, in this trust, you will find strength and courage. Wait . . . be still . . . in the presence of Jehovah.