Here are ways some people try to cope with discouragement.
Be honest about how you feel. Focus on facts—not just on negative feelings. Learn to be patient. When we fail to get the outcome we expected, consider it education. Re-envision the future. Stop comparing ourselves to others—we’re all unique. Talk to a mentor. Find and help someone else. The Apostle Paul used several of these tactics when he faced discouragement. We learn from Acts Ch 18 that when he and his partner Silas came to Corinth, a city noted for corruption and idolatry, they went to the local synagogue to tell people about Jesus. The angry people rebuffed and insulted them. Rather than give up, Paul left and went next door. There he found others more open to the Gospel. That night, the Lord spoke to him and told him not to stop speaking the truth, that his mission in that city would ultimately be successful. So when we become depressed we can often find courage from the Lord if we take time to pray and fill our minds and hearts with God’s reassuring words found in the Scriptures.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
