Dear Logos Family,
Here are some helpful thoughts for Overcoming Discouragement from pastor Rick Warren.
No matter what’s discouraging you today: You’re not alone. The greatest missionary in the history of the church faced all kinds of discouraging circumstances. In 2 Corinthians Paul describes being shipwrecked, flogged, beaten, stoned and more. But Paul also gives us time tested principles for overcoming discouragement.
NEVER FORGET HOW MUCH GOD LOVES YOU.
You know God loves you. But do you feel it in your heart? When you stop feeling the love of God, you’ll get discouraged. Paul writes in 2 Cor 4:1: “We don’t become discouraged, since God has given us this ministry through his mercy. (GW)
You can’t feel discouraged and feel the love of God at the same time. You have to choose between the two. Some people don’t feel God’s love because they think God is angry at them all the time. If that’s the voice you’re hearing, it’s not God. He’s not mad at you; he’s mad about you!
The number one purpose of your life isn’t to love God. It’s to let God love you. When you’re discouraged, focus on that love.
DON’T FAKE IT.
Be yourself. You don’t have to pretend you’re not hurting. Be who God made you to be. Nothing is more discouraging than trying to be something you’re not.
REMEMBER, IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU.
You’re more likely to be discouraged when you’re self-focused. Paul reminds us: “Our message is not about ourselves” (2 Cor 4:5, The Message) God message is not about you. It’s about Jesus.
Some days I have to say that to myself 20 times. Whether I’m praised or criticized, I whisper to myself: “It’s not about me. It’s about Jesus. Discouragement happens when we forget the why. Jesus is the why.
More on this topic next week….stay tuned!
Grace and Peace
Pastor Bill