The root cause of discouragement lies in disbelief. You might be feeling disheartened because you doubt that you’re earning enough (and lack faith in God’s provision). Perhaps frustration has crept into your job (and you’ve lost faith in God’s ability to bring contentment). It’s possible you’re anxious about health issues (without considering that your life is in God’s hands).

Discouragement acts like a thick cloud, blocking the warmth and joy of the sun, and it’s a tool of Satan to hinder God’s work in our lives. It blinds us to God’s mercy and focuses our attention solely on unfavorable circumstances.

The only way to dispel discouragement isn’t through our own strength or cleverness. It’s by turning to God in faith, believing in His love for us and His control over the future. Like the Psalmist, we should remind ourselves, “Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will place my hope in God! I will praise Him once more – my Savior and my God!”