No matter how much we try to avoid it, sometimes our expectations remain unmet, or we miss an opportunity that we’ve been praying for and end up disappointed. Facing disappointment is hard. Sometimes, it devastates us, and we find it hard to bounce back. Other times, we ignore it completely, and in the long run, those suppressed feelings will manifest themselves, and we will find it hard to hope and be expectant because we are protecting ourselves from the pain of disappointment. We can avoid those extremes and train ourselves to face disappointments in a healthy way and in a way that glorifies God.
As Christians, we have a unique perspective that can help us navigate the challenges of disappointment and find hope in the midst of it all. This blog will explore how we can face disappointment from a Christian standpoint. We will use biblical insights and practical guidance to help you overcome disappointment and find renewed hope in God.
How do we face disappointment?
We acknowledge it before God.
When Jesus’ friend Lazarus died, one of his sisters Martha, felt disappointed because she knew that Jesus could have healed Lazarus, but because Jesus was late, Lazarus died. When Jesus arrived, Martha said, “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died…” (John 11:21)
She expressed her disappointment to Jesus. She felt things could have turned out differently if only Jesus had been there earlier. When we tell our disappointments to God, we may feel guilty and ashamed because we see it as a sign of lacking faith in His promises to work things for our good. Yet Martha shows us that we can share our feelings and have faith simultaneously. Again, this is what she said to Jesus “Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask.” (John 11:21-22)
Being honest with God helps us relieve the heaviness of our feelings and shows that we trust God enough to handle our negative emotions like disappointment, confusion, and doubts.
How do we have hope in disappointment?
We remember His character.
Finding hope in a seemingly hopeless scenario can be hard, especially when focusing on things we can’t control. Still, during these moments, we can be intentional in remembering His character.
“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God! Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember You” Psalm 42:5-6
It's easy to isolate ourselves from God when we feel disappointed or like He’s against us, but remember that He is our hope during our disappointment. We may not understand our situation and His plan, but we can remember who He is. He is good, He is gracious, He is wise, and He is our Father who has our best interest in His mind.
Facing disappointment is hard and can be a vulnerable place, causing us to doubt God and His promises. But don't let that hinder you from glorifying God in your lives. Your feelings are valid, and the Lord understands. He is near, and He is for you. Never let this situation make you feel otherwise. God will get you through this.
To help encourage your faith this month, especially when facing disappointment, try our current box entitled, Hope in Disappointment!