010: Overcoming Discouragement|The Living Room - a podcast by Joanna Weaver

 


Do you ever feel like the darkness and discouragement will never lift? Everyone gets discouraged now and then, but what do we do when it comes to stay? I've felt it before, that overwhelming sense that I am just slogging through wet cement, incapable of any forward momentum.

In times like this, it can be tempting to nurse and rehearse our frustrations, but God offers us so much more!In this episode, I share five steps for overcoming discouragement. With the Lord's help, we can push through discouragement and refuse to give in to hopelessness and despair.
{ USE PLAYER BAR @ TOP OF PAGE to listen to show, subscribe and share }We'll be discussing...
When David was distressed, he"strengthened himself in the Lord"and we can too! (1 Samuel 30:6). Here's how:
1. Get alone with JesusIf discouragement isn't dealt with early on, it only grows. Don't try to ignore it with busyness.
Stop and pour your heart out to God!2. Invite God into the equation

Don't believe the lie that you are all alone or that it is all up to you.
Our strength is limited, but God's strength is not.
Ask for wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."James 1:5 
God helps us to step back and gain His perspective on our situation.3. Declare what you know, not what you feel

Look in the mirror and speak words of life over yourself, rather than words of death.4. Do the next right thing

Rather than focusing on what you can't do, move forward in what you can do.
Do what you can do and trust God to do the rest.5. Take courage

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 Discouragement paralyzes us, but Jesus offers the courage to take the next step."Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9

What may look like an impossible OBSTACLE to us is an OPPORTUNITY to go deeper with Jesus and to see Him move in ways we've never experienced before. So be of good cheer, my friend!

God is with you. God is for you. God is working on your behalf.Additional Resources
How to Survive a Terrible-No-Good-Very-Bad Day003: The Next Right Thing with Emily P. Freeman | The Living Room

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I'd love to hear from you... What has helped you to overcome discouragement?

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