Discouragment - 3 more causes

Last post we talked about the first cause of discouragement:  Fatigue.  Today we will talk about the next three most common causes of discouragement.

Each one of these when we realize how they are affecting us can be corrected and dealt with.  But we have to be aware.  So as stated last post if you are fatigued and tired - you become emotionally vulnerable.  We have to take time to take care of ourselves.  We will waste more time being discouraged if we don't.

The next three causes of discouragement is:

2. Loss of Vision:  We begin to lose our vision for our lives, especially when we are going through difficult times we can feel like we are just existing.  But we have to change our perspective of what our trial is doing in our life.  It is strengthening us - we are an example and inspiration to others.  We are a testimony to how God can hold us up during difficult times. 
So how do we create vision when we feel all is lost or too hard?  Be pro-active, begin to look at your thought process and when it is negative change it to a positive.  Have a plan, don't let life just carry you - always pray but then take action.  In other words, evaluate your use of time, energy, and other resources. .  Phil 4:8

3. Loss of Confidence
Remember who is for you (the God of the impossible)  With God nothing is impossible in the situation you are in right now.  Remember who you are. You are God's child, you are able through Him to do the task set before you - you are given a new day and a new beginning every day.
Lam 3:22-23

4.  Loss of security - "Fear"
Projecting into the future - not keeping in mind God's promises.  We have to fight to see the good things in your life - change your perspective.  Our thoughts directly affect our feelings and then our behavior.   Paul was in prison most of his ministry but wrote about joy and contentment.  When we lean on the Lord He expands our abilities to handle the situation we are in.
Believe that God is in control (Ps. 103:19), loves you, and will never leave you (Heb. 13:5). He can turn adversity into something good.

Practical things to do when discouraged:
1. Exercise
2. Do something fun
3. Listen to praise and worship music
4. Think back to all the things God has brought you through.
5. Remember who God is
6. Look at what your thought process is - do you need to change your perspective
7. Don't isolate - discouragement grows in the environment of isolation
8. Do something for someone who has a need. 
9. Keep a gratitude journal - write down 3 things everyday that you are thankful for. 

Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you" (Psalm 39:7, NLT).

“The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or “Help me.”
Billy Graham