Overcoming Discouragement — Finding Strength in God

Al Felder
Oct 5
2 min read

“But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.”

— 1 Kings 19:4

The Reality of Discouragement

Discouragement is one of life's greatest struggles. It visits everyone—whether young or old, strong or weak, faithful or struggling. Even God’s greatest servants wrestled with it. Job cursed the day of his birth, Jeremiah wept over the sins of his people, David poured out songs of sorrow, and Elijah himself wished for death under the juniper tree.

If these spiritual giants could feel overwhelmed, then we should not be surprised when discouragement creeps into our own hearts. What matters most is how we respond to it.

Elijah’s Story: From Triumph to Despair

Elijah had just witnessed God’s fire consume the sacrifice on Mount Carmel—a stunning victory over Baal’s prophets. Yet shortly after, a single threat from Jezebel sent him running for his life. Alone, exhausted, and afraid, Elijah prayed for God to end his life.

How could a man who stood so boldly before a nation fall so quickly into despair? His story reminds us that discouragement often comes not in our weakest moments, but even after great victories.

Causes of Discouragement

The Bible identifies many roots of discouragement:

Spiritual immaturity – failing to grow in God’s Word leaves us unsteady (Hebrews 5:12–13).
Being double-minded – letting feelings, rather than God’s Word, direct our choices (James 1:8).
Sin—ours or others’ – guilt, bitterness, and unresolved conflict weigh down the soul (Matthew 18:15).
Lack of visible success – feeling like our efforts for the gospel are in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Comparisons – measuring ourselves against others instead of focusing on ourselves (John 21:22).
“Friendly fire” – hurtful words or actions from fellow believers (James 3:9).

Each of these can sap our strength and make us want to give up.

God’s Prescription for Discouragement

Elijah’s journey shows us how to overcome discouragement:

Faith – Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1–2).
Self-examination – Laying aside every weight and sin that hinders us (Romans 12:2).
Perspective – Remembering we are not alone; God has more faithful servants than we realize (1 Kings 19:18).
Prayer – Pouring out our hearts to God, even in anguish, as Jesus did in Gethsemane (Luke 22:44).
Work – Returning to God’s mission, serving faithfully where He has placed us (1 Kings 19:15).

God reminded Elijah that he still had work to do. In the same way, discouragement is not the end of our story—it can become the turning point where faith is renewed.

Holding On Together

Discouragement is one of Satan’s sharpest tools. It weakens our faith, hinders our service, and isolates us from God’s people. But Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us that “a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” We are stronger together.

If you feel weighed down, don’t quit. Lean on God. Lean on His people. Trust that He is still working through you.

Discouragement is real, but so is God’s strength. Victory belongs to those who endure.