Dealing with Dissapointment

Understanding Disappointment

“But those who wait on 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.” –Isaiah 40:31 NIV

The most certain thing about the human condition is we will all experience disappointment at some point in our lives. Whether it be in our families, relationships, careers, or ministry, there is, and will always be, a season of disappointment we will have to overcome.

It is very important to be conscious of the times when you feel disappointed. This is because disappointment can lead to discouragement and discouragement, if not addressed, will lead to despair.

The Dangers of Succumbing to Despair

Despair, defined by the Merriam Webster dictionary, is the complete absence of hope. Hence, it is imperative we be on our guard when we are faced with an unmet expectation. Those moments when our hope is crushed and we feel let down are the critical seasons that will determine if we keep pushing or give up.

When we’re faced with disappointment we have two choices. We can either dwell on the negative, or we can focus on Christ. One choice will guarantee we stumble because focusing on disappointment will deplete spiritual strength. The second choice, on the other hand, keeps our minds  on the Lord and the love of the Father which keeps us from throwing in the towel.

Take Control of Your Perspective

When I experienced disappointment, I would ruminate on the hopelessness of my circumstances from a human point of view. Still, the Bible says “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). 

This taught me that although human reasoning might try to tell me things will never change, my limited scope of thinking does not dictate what God can and cannot do. Furthermore, regardless of what I think, He is always good and has my best interest at heart. This meant regardless of my dilemma, God  would protect and save me.

The scripture goes on to say “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:6). This also taught me that regardless of my fleeting feelings, I had to make the active choice to trust in God’s Word so He could direct my steps.

The Takeaway

Often when we are disappointed we are tempted to think “What’s the point of even trying?”At times like this, we are especially prone to questioning the promises of God. Still, we are urged to submit to God’s will, which is to love and trust Him with all of our hearts. When we do this, He will give us a proper perspective.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.” –Proverbs 3:7-8 NIV

I believe the way we choose to deal with disappointment determines our spiritual health. If we think we know everything and try to be wise in our own eyes, the pain we feel from disappointment can easily cause us to sink into a pool of despair. On the contrary, if we trust God and resist the temptation to give up, we will be comforted by His love that comes in the midst of trying times.