Disappointments are a part of life; however, discouragement does not have to be. If we have gotten to the point of feeling discouraged, we need to examine our story. Then understand what to do to heal the disappointment and discouragement.

3 CATEGORIES OF DISAPPOINTMENT

Disappointment is an emotional response to unmet expectations; however, when we put disappointment into proper perspective, we can avoid discouragement. Discouragement is a loss of confidence in God, self, and others, which causes a sense of hopelessness to start creeping into our heart, mind, and soul.

1. Disappointment in God
2. Disappointment in self
3. Disappointment in others

DISAPPOINTMENT IN GOD IS YOUR FLESH

How arrogant can we be to think, believe, or feel that God is capable of disappointing us. If God has chosen not to give us what we wanted or expected, perhaps we need to consider several things:

1. He knows what’s best for us and has something better for us
2. He recognizes that we are not ready to appreciate fully what we want
3. He knows that what we are asking for is damaging to our TOTAL HEALTH
4. He has simply delayed giving it to us because He wants to grow us spiritually

DISAPPOINTMENT IN SELF MAY BE UNDUE

We have all done things that disappointed us; however, if this seems to be a recurring pattern in certain areas of our lives, perhaps we need to examine carefully our approach. If you are trying to lose weight and you are constantly struggling, rather than making a plan or system that demands perfection, identify where you can show more C.A.R.E. to self.

Is it getting more sleep, so that you are refreshed and able to work out or cope better?

Is it lacking the ability to say ‘NO’ instead, of putting too many items on your plate?

Is it skimping on your meals and feeling starved, which backfires eventually?

Is it lacking patience and wanting change to occur overnight and then getting frustrated when it does not happen at your speed?

Remember that you are human, set goals that demand more; however, not so much that you fail repeatedly to achieve those goals. Have non-negotiables and keep self-promises. Never leave home without your P.A.L.S., have an accountability buddy, and an anchor.

DISAPPOINTMENT IN OTHERS CAN HURT

Everyone is on a journey, and not everyone will be at the same stage as you. Again, we need to show C.A.R.E. Show compassion for the frailties of others; accept that they are human and will make mistakes too; respect their boundaries and allow them to grow at their own pace; and show them empathy.

When you act from a place or state of love, you are more willing to allow others to be themselves. While it may be upsetting and hurt that they disappointed you, know that it was not an intentional slight. Recognize that they too are trying their best on this journey called life. Love them unconditionally and they will eventually get there.

LIFE IS JOURNEY BEST NAVIGATED WITH PRAYER

Trials and tribulations are a part of life; therefore, we will from time to time be disappointed. Learn to process disappointment from a place of love and truth. Always show C.A.R.E. to self and others when you process your disappointment, because you do not know what trials they may be going through. Know that discouragement is a choice that you make when you forget or choose to not take it to God in prayer.

When we remember to put God first and seek Him in everything, we will also remember to take our disappointment and discouragement to Him in prayer: Father

1. I know you are with me in everything
2. I know you are in absolute control
3. I know you will turn this for good
4. I believe that You love me, and I trust You will get me through this