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.
Let us learn from Elijah’s journey. God doesn't forsake us in our down moments—He meets us there, strengthens us, and gives us fresh purpose. Stay anchored in God’s promises and surround yourself with encouragement.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every spirit of discouragement and despair.
2. Father, renew my strength and restore my hope in You.
3. I refuse to dwell in fear; I embrace the peace of God that passes understanding.
4. Let every assignment of darkness designed to frustrate me be destroyed.
5. Lord, connect me with encouragers who will speak life into me.
