Overcoming Discouragement: Finding Hope in God’s Strength

Al Felder
May 31, 2025
2 min read

“It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life.”

— 1 Kings 19:4

Even the most faithful servants of God can face deep discouragement. The prophet Elijah, after calling down fire from heaven and proving the power of the One True God, fled for his life in fear of Jezebel. He ran into the wilderness, sat under a juniper tree, and begged God to end his life.

Discouragement is a universal human experience. No one is immune—not even spiritual giants. It can stem from fear, exhaustion, unmet expectations, sin, conflict, or a sense of failure. The important question is: how do we overcome it?

Causes of Discouragement

Fear and Threats: Like Elijah, we may retreat when we feel threatened or overwhelmed. Fear steals our courage and replaces it with despair.
Spiritual Immaturity: A lack of growth in understanding God’s Word can leave us unprepared for spiritual battles. Without spiritual depth, discouragement finds fertile ground.
Double-mindedness: When our minds are not anchored in God’s truth, our feelings dictate our faith. This instability leaves us vulnerable.
Sin: Personal sin, or unresolved sin in others, can drain our spirit and cloud our judgment.
Lack of Results: When our efforts seem fruitless, especially in sharing the gospel or serving in the church, we may wonder if it’s worth it.
Comparison: Measuring ourselves against others—like Peter comparing himself to John (John 21:20-22)—only deepens our sense of inadequacy.
Friendly Fire: Discouragement can come from unexpected places, including our own brethren. A careless word can crush a soul already struggling.

God’s Answer to Discouragement

God did not abandon Elijah. He ministered to him with rest, nourishment, and finally, with a “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12). Elijah needed to remember that God was not finished with him, and He’s not finished with you either.

How to Overcome Discouragement

Look to Christ: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:2). Christ endured the cross. He is our example and strength.
Examine Yourself: Discomfort often calls for self-reflection. Are there sins to confess? Attitudes to change? Truths to embrace more deeply?
Renew Your Perspective: Elijah thought he was alone, but he wasn’t. Sometimes our discouragement stems from believing a false reality. God sees what we don’t.
Pray Fervently: Like Jesus in Gethsemane (Luke 22:44), we must pour out our hearts to God. Some burdens require deeper prayer.
Get to WorkGod gave Elijah a mission. Purpose is often the antidote to despair. When we focus on helping others and fulfilling our role in the church, our perspective shifts.

Don’t Let Discouragement Win

Satan uses discouragement to derail your walk with Christ, silence your voice, and separate you from hope. Don’t let him succeed. Lean on your brothers and sisters. Serve. Pray. Grow.

And remember—you are never alone.