Being Faithful Through Discouragement

We are all going to go through hard times and we will all experience discouragement and disappointment. While it is good to acknowledge these emotions and grieve the outcome we thought we would get, we shouldn't let it deter us from how we react and respond to God.

I personally am having to walk through disappointment and I am extremely discouraged by circumstances right now. I worked very hard to get to the place that I currently am, and it stings to feel like I am not doing enough now that I have reached the place I prayed so hard to be. I am mad at myself for not meeting certain standards and I am frustrated that my health is playing a major part in not meeting those standards. From an outsiders POV, this is an easy fix, new goals can be met, and I can get to where I need to be in my professional career, being in the middle of it personally it is one of those "easier said than done" things. I know that I can do hard things, that has been proven in the past because the Lord does see us through, but when we are so close to the situation it can make it very difficult to see the whole picture.

Yes I have been having my pity party, with an attendance of one, and I have allowed myself to be in a foul mood. But I also still showed up and made sure I was reading scripture during this time. No I did not do a deep dive, but I still opened the bible app and read a chapter in Psalm and thanked the Lord for another day of having breath in my lungs. Why am I telling you this? To show that even when we don't really want to show up, we owe it to God to do it anyways. He sent His son to die for me, even on my worst of days, the least I can do is stay consistent with reading His Word. 

I am reminded that while I may not feel like my feet are on steady ground when it comes to my plans, the Lord Himself has plans for me that are based on the strongest foundation there is. When I get overwhelmed in my disappointment, He is the Comfort I crave. When I get angry at circumstances beyond my control, He is the Peace that I seek. When I feel the exhaustion seep into my bones, He is the Rest I need. 

I do not have to strive for perfection, as God has never asked that of His children. I can come to Him in any capacity and He only sees His daughter that He loves. That fact alone makes breathing a little easier. 

When you face things that have your emotions all over the place, remember where to go to reset. 

Psalm 61:2 - "when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I."

Philippians 4:6-7 - "do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

Isaiah 41:10 - "so do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you."

1 Peter 5:7 - "cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you"

Psalm 46:1 - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

I pray that you never forget that your strength is found in Christ, no matter what you encounter this side of Heaven. God cares so deeply for you, and there is nothing you could do to change that fact. I pray that when you experience hardships, you turn to the One who can provide a peace like no other, and that you find your rest in Him as well. There is no one who knows you better than the God that created you.