A Conversation about Discouragement

Written by Jill Moltumyr

Do you ever find yourself wanting to talk to someone about discouragement? Do you ever feel like you need to talk to someone about it?

Discouragement is an issue that we may want—and need— to have a conversation about, but don’t feel that we can.

Years ago, I was going through a situation as a pastor that unfortunately was—and still is—common for those who accept that calling. During that I time, I was introduced to a a fellow pastor who has recently gone through a very similar experience of his own, though on a much larger scale than mine. Quite franking, I was struggling and desperate for someone to talk to. Thinking that he would understand and offer some support, I carefully approached spoke to him about it. His reaction was not what I expected. I neither received sympathy nor support. What I got was essentially “blown off”. He didn’t have the time nor the interest in helping. I walked away with a deep feeling of embarrassment and rejection.

Let’s be honest—it can be hard to have a conversation about discouragement. To do so can feel as if we are being unspiritual and not trusting God. After all, aren’t we instructed in the Bible not to be discouraged?

If we are discouraged does that mean that does that mean that our faith is flawed? I have come to the conclusion that it’s the fear of what others may think of about our faith and our character that keeps us from getting the help we so often need. Let’s do it anyway. Let’s have short conversation and leave the door open for a longer one later if you want to.

Since this conversation can only be brief, let’s talk about three things related to discouragement.

First the discovery of discouragement . Discovery by definition has two meanings:to find something that we are looking for, and to find something we didn’t know existed. No one one sets out find discouragement, but many discover that it exists. It shows up when things didn’t turn out the way we hoped, when someone treats us unjustly, even after a great victory—when we least expect it

Next, dealing with discouragement. You can’t ignore it, and you can’t pretend it isn’t real—especially when its effects are all around you. There are three warnings I would advise you to be aware of. First it will affect your fight. Discouragement can stop us from fighting the good fight. If left unchecked, it can paralyze us. Second, it will shift your focus. You may stop doing what you know you should and start doing what you know you shouldn’t. Third, it will shrink your faith. You will find it harder to believe God and obey him.

Lastly, defeating discouragement. There are two outcomes to discouragement: either it will defeat you or it will be defeated. The Bible teaches us that we can do all things through Christ. When you’re in a season of despair, those words may not seem true—but they are. It is possible to defeat discouragement! Most battles are fought and won in the valleys or in the wilderness. Those are the places you will find the God of all hope— the God who sees, the God who speaks, the God who strengthens, the God who supplies a friend who will listen when you need to have a conversation.