Dealing With Discouragement Series

DEALING WITH DISCOURAGEMENT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 19:1–18

“And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?” – 1 Kings 19:9 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 42:11, John 14:1, 2 Corinthians 4:8–9, Isaiah 41:10, Hebrews 12:3

INTRODUCTION:

Discouragement is one of the most potent emotional weapons the enemy uses against believers. It is a feeling of despair or lack of confidence, especially in times of difficulty or prolonged waiting. It often leads to weariness in prayer, detachment from fellowship, and doubt in God’s promises.

Even great men and women of God in Scripture were not immune to discouragement. Elijah, after calling down fire on Mount Carmel, fled for his life and wished for death. Discouragement can creep in after spiritual victories, personal losses, or delays in fulfilment of God’s promises.

The good news is that God understands our human frame. He provides spiritual strength, encouragement, and divine reassurance to those battling discouragement. In this sermon, we will examine how to identify, understand, and overcome discouragement through God’s help.

1. RECOGNISING THE SOURCES OF DISCOURAGEMENT

Discouragement doesn’t just appear—it comes from specific triggers and pressures.

a) Fear of threats and uncertainty

Elijah became discouraged after Jezebel’s threat. Fear of the unknown often leads to anxiety and discouragement. (1 Kings 19:2–3)

b) Unrealised expectations

When what we hoped for doesn’t happen as planned, it can deflate our spiritual confidence. (Proverbs 13:12)

c) Physical and emotional exhaustion

Tiredness makes us vulnerable to discouragement. Elijah was physically drained when he fled. (1 Kings 19:4–5)

d) Loneliness and isolation

Discouragement thrives in isolation. Elijah felt alone, thinking he was the only one serving God. (1 Kings 19:10)

Biblical Example: Moses experienced discouragement in leading the Israelites (Numbers 11:11–15), feeling overwhelmed and alone.

GOD’S RESPONSE TO OUR DISCOURAGEMENT

When believers become discouraged, God doesn’t condemn them—He restores and strengthens them.

a) Divine provision for strength

God sent an angel to feed Elijah twice, knowing his journey was too much for him. (1 Kings 19:5–8)

b) A gentle encounter with God’s presence

God revealed Himself not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a still small voice. (1 Kings 19:11–12)

c) Correcting our perspective

Elijah thought he was alone, but God reminded him that 7,000 others had not bowed to Baal. (1 Kings 19:18)

d) Assigning fresh purpose

God gave Elijah new assignments to reignite his sense of purpose. (1 Kings 19:15–16)

Biblical Example: Hagar, discouraged and alone in the desert, encountered God who revealed a future for her and her son. (Genesis 21:14–19)

ENCOURAGING YOURSELF IN THE LORD

Sometimes, encouragement must be a personal initiative when external support is lacking.

a) Reflecting on past victories

Recalling God’s faithfulness in the past can restore confidence. (Psalm 77:11)

b) Speaking the Word of God to yourself

The Word is a well of hope. Declare God’s promises aloud. (Romans 15:4)

c) Engaging in heartfelt worship

Worship lifts the soul and shifts focus from the problem to the Saviour. (Psalm 42:5)

d) Maintaining a journal of gratitude

Writing what God has done increases your awareness of His goodness. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Biblical Example: David encouraged himself in the Lord after the devastation at Ziklag. (1 Samuel 30:6)

THE POWER OF GODLY ASSOCIATION IN TIMES OF DISCOURAGEMENT

No one thrives alone. God often uses people as vessels of encouragement.

a) Seeking wise and spiritual counsel

A word from a seasoned believer can revive hope. (Proverbs 11:14)

b) Surrounding yourself with faith-filled companions

Avoid people who fuel your fears and doubts. (1 Corinthians 15:33)

c) Engaging in corporate worship and fellowship

Spiritual energy is multiplied in unity. (Hebrews 10:25)

d) Being accountable to a mentor or leader

Accountability provides support and direction. (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)

Biblical Example: Paul was encouraged by the coming of Titus. (2 Corinthians 7:6)

STAYING FOCUSED ON GOD’S PROMISES

Fixing your eyes on what God has said strengthens your resolve to keep going.

a) Trusting God's timing

Delay is not denial. God works in seasons. (Habakkuk 2:3)

b) Holding fast to your confession of faith

Don’t let momentary hardship rob you of your declaration. (Hebrews 10:23)

c) Believing that all things will work together for good

God will use this experience for your growth. (Romans 8:28)

d) Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith

He endured the cross and now sits in glory—so shall you. (Hebrews 12:2)

Biblical Example: Abraham believed in hope against hope and was rewarded. (Romans 4:18–21)

CONCLUSION:

Discouragement is not a sign of weak faith; it is a reality we must confront with divine truth and spiritual tools. What matters is not whether we feel discouraged, but how we respond when it comes. With God’s help, we can overcome it and emerge stronger.