(4) The Causes of Discouragement

There may seem to be a variety of sources from which discouragement may arise. But, when it comes to the causes of our discouragement, there are really just a few. Some are surface causes that we quickly recognize. Then there are root causes that we need to more diligently ferret out. But, there is good news, we are in control of each one because they all come from within us.

One common surface cause of discouragement is FATIGUE. This may be physical fatigue due to a busy schedule or physical illness. Or, it may be spiritual fatigue due to a lack of personal worship and fellowship with God and time in His Word.

A second surface cause of discouragement is FEAR. Fear may arise because of real or imagined dangers or negative circumstances – worry & discouragement are often found together. It can also come from a fear of criticism (What will they think?); the fear of responsibility (What if I can't handle this?); and the fear of failure (What if I blow it?). Any of these can cause a major onset of the blues.

The third surface cause through which we can become discouraged is actual FAILURE. Failure can come because of circumstances beyond our control, lack of ability or sometimes lack of follow-through. But the reason for the failure does not determine the amount of discouragement we may experience. Especially when the failure is public or effects others negatively.

And the fourth and last surface cause of discouragement is FRUSTRATION. We can become frustrated with many things in life. A lack of progress toward some goal, things breaking, unexpected expenses and the list goes on and on. Then, we can become frustrated with people because we lack a heart of patience and forbearance.

But these are only the surface causes that present themselves. There are actually three root causes we need to carefully consider if we are going to get victory over discouragement. We will look at each of these in depth, but for now, I will list them with some scripture for your initial consideration.

1. Lack of FEAR

• We become discouraged and stay discouraged because we do not have a healthy reverence for God and His glory being displayed in our lives.

Proverbs 14:26 (NET)
In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence . . .

2. Lack of FAITH

• A great deal of discouragement will be defeated simply by trusting God and believing His Word.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)
Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV)
He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 30Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; 31but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

3. Loss of FOCUS

• We often become discouraged because we have a short-sighted, human view of our life circumstances.

Galatians 6:9 (NAU)
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

Hebrews 12:3 (NAU)
For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Next:  (5) Defeating Discouragement With Fear