Can God Be Trusted in Discouragement?

1 Now it happened when David and his men came [home] to Ziglag on the third day, [they found] that the Amalekites had made a raid on the Negev (the South country) and on Ziglag, and had overthrown Ziglag and burned it with fire;

I Samuel 30:6 AMP

Today’s Question:

Can you feel _encouragement_ when you experience discouragement?

“Chazaq” Hebrew means “prove courageous, strength, describes a battle scene.” 

Is discouragement a sin?

Discouragement is a _temptation_ “common to man.” 

-1 Corinthians 10:13

Discouragement is dangerous when it . . . .

• Turns to self-pity.
• Paralyzes you from doing what you should.
• Threatens abiding contentment in Christ.

-2 Corinthians 6:10

“sorrowful, yet always rejoicing”

The purpose of discouragement is to destroy your personal perspective and trust in God.

-1 Samuel 27:1

• Focus on what “might” happen instead of what God “has” done.

“One of these days. . . .”

• False _dependency_ on personal resources instead of God’s promises.

“The best thing I CAN DO. . . ”

_Impulsive_ decision making instead of trusting God.

“. . . . ESCAPE . . . .”

Discouragement puts us in a position to remain courageous and faithful or escape.

So, when does discouragement become sinful?

_Unbelief_- the loss of courage to continue.

Sin (Satan’s ploy)- always offers attractive alternatives whenever you are facing discouragement.