Too often in our lives, we experience the hurt of discouragement and rejection. So often we feel as though nothing else could possibly go wrong, and then it does… You fight with a friend, you fail at something, you get fired from a job, you get cut from the team, you lose an important relationship, and your dreams and plans fall apart before your eyes.
It is so common to encounter painful times in our lives where God feels distant. It feels as though we walk the hard road alone, and no one understands the struggles we are going through. When disappointment comes, it floods our lives all at once, and defeat slowly creeps in until we feel like giving up.
At times, it may feel that each time you turn the corner you face more rejection, or feeling you’re not quite good enough. Or so it seems. Maybe you just can’t help feeling discarded and worthless, buying into the lies that Satan desperately wants you to believe. He wants you to give up and throw in the towel. He wants you to think there is no hope for your life, yet God’s word tells us otherwise. He desires to build character within our lives, and mature us, so we can be more available to do His work.
Romans 5:3-5 says, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (KJV)
Even during the hardest and most disappointing times in our lives, God is creating a Christ-like character within us. Suffering, though not initiated by God, is used by God to make us more compassionate and loving. However, He does not expect us to go through the struggles alone, but walks with us every step of the way, and gives the s strength to keep moving forward despite opposition.
In fact, in Deuteronomy 31:8, we learn, “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.”
God also tells us not to give up, because His plan is far beyond our comprehension; If something doesn’t work out the way we expect it to, we must recognize God’s sovereignty, knowing He never shuts one door without opening another, which is far better according to His plan for each of us!
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (ESV)
Be encouraged, brothers and sisters. You are not alone in your trials. In fact, Jesus himself knows rejection greater than anyone else. He wants to mend your heart and restore you, so He can use you for something incredible! Even if you don’t understand why at the time, just wait, because He knows what is best for you!
What is God speaking to you? Grab a piece of paper or a note on your smartphone and write those thoughts out.