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Discouragement is a disease unique to human beings, and it's universal -- eventually everyone gets it, including those in ministry. I have no doubt you've experienced discouragement at times, maybe many times. You might even be discouraged at this very moment.
Do you know how often I have wanted to quit being pastor of Saddleback Church? Every Monday morning! So here's what I've learned about battling discouragement:
WHAT CAUSES DISCOURAGEMENT?
#1 Cause - FATIGUE
#2 Cause - FRUSTRATION
#3 Cause - FAILURE
#4 Cause - FEAR
WHAT'S THE CURE FOR DISCOURAGEMENT?
There's a fascinating story in the Bible about how a guy named Nehemiah mobilized the residents of Jerusalem to build a wall around the entire city. Half way through the project, the citizens became discouraged and wanted to give up -- because of the FOUR causes I've given.
Here's what Nehemiah taught about defeating discouragement (Nehemiah 4):
REST YOUR BODY
If you need a break -- take one! You'll be more effective when you return to work. If you're burning the candle at both ends, you're not as bright as you think!
REORGANIZE YOUR LIFE
Discouragement doesn't necessarily mean you are doing the wrong thing. It may just be that you are doing the right thing in the wrong way. Try a new approach. Shake things up a little.
REMEMBER GOD WILL HELP YOU
Just ask Him. He can give you new energy. Theres incredible motivating power in faith.
RESIST THE DISCOURAGEMENT
Fight back! Discouragement is a choice. If you feel discouraged, it's because youve chosen to feel that way. No one is forcing you to feel bad. Hang on! Do what's right in spite of your feelings. No feeling lasts forever.
