Sunday, August 29, 2021
A Time of Discouragement
Nehemiah 4
The power of discouragement to stop us from experiencing success and achieving the purposes God has for us is great. Here is a scripture-picture of how it can be dealt with from the book of Nehemiah.
Discouragement is dissatisfaction with the past, distaste for the present, and distrust of the future.
There must be an expectation for there to be disappointment.
A Time of Discouragement – Nehemiah 4
I. Causes of Discouragement 4:10-12
· Criticism of Others
Satan loves to turn our ears to the sound of negative voices to bring about defeat.
· Weariness from the Task
Don’t ever decide to quit when you are tired! A weary body can negatively impact our decisions.
· Realization of Difficulty
DISAPPOINTMENT – when things don't happen the way WE think they should.
Unrealistic expectations can lead to unnecessary discouragement.
Satan’s path to defeat: Expectation – Frustration – Disappointment - Discouragement – Disillusionment – Depression – Defeat
How often does our vision get lost in the multitude of details? The energy comes from the VISION.
· Loss of Confidence
· Loss of Security
Fear is behind more discouragement than we'd like to admit.
They were “listening to the jungle” or giving more attention to the enemy than the work.
Momentary disappointment must never be allowed to stay long enough to conquer our spirit.
II. Actions to Defeat Discouragement 4:13-23
· Adjust your plan to the circumstances.
· Direct attention to the Lord.
Our KNOWLEDGE of God determines the level of our FAITH. The reality of faith brings us HOPE.
The presence of hope changes discouragement to courage.
· Remain vigilant against further attack.
· Remember you are not alone.
Discouragement feeds off of isolation.
· Get back to work.
