Having just received a fresh word from the Lord, excitedly we want to share the revelation. We seek out friends who we believe will rejoice with us and join in our enthusiasm. Surprisingly it doesn't happen. Instead of excitement their response casts a cloud of negativity over our joy. Experts in pessimism, they begin pointing out all the reasons we shouldn't embrace new steps of faith.
This really is nothing new. Moses spoke of the generations of Israelites who discouraged their people from entering the land of promise. Within the family there can be those whose vision is limited and their view hindered by doubt, inadequacy and worry. Sadly, they can hold such influence that God's people can lose their desire to walk in obedience. It's a serious sin to discourage the heart of another Christ-follower.
I know we need to exercise wisdom when we perceive the Lord is leading us in a new direction but why are some believers so quick to shoot down another's spiritual fervour? I can't tell you the number of times I've presented something with passion and been met with blank stares. Apathetic words follow. Their unexpected replies hurt. I often think it feels like how the character Joe Fox responds to Kathleen Kelly in the movie "You've Got Mail". Kathleen has just shared her heartache over an unforeseen verbal attack she received, and with compassion Joe responds, "You were expecting to see someone you trusted and met the enemy instead." Wow! No truer words! Definitely discouragement is enemy territory. I think often if Satan can just dampen our spirit at the gate, we will begin to doubt and question whatever it was that had initially had us so eager.
What inspires discouragement? Why are some so prone to raining on another's parade? I really don't believe that every word from a naysayer is to intentionally shoot us down. Not all responses are truthful indicators that we are being misled, or that in haste have put the horse before the cart. Careless words can flow from cold hearts. Jealous or envious of our expressions of joy and enthusiasm, others can resent our happiness. From places of insecurity and selfishness they aim to dissuade. Possibly fear plays a role. Maybe it's hearing their dream given again to another while God has seemingly remained silent to their prayers.
It's irrational to just dismiss every critical comment. It may be your best counsellor, being used to protect you from foolishly rushing ahead. But after seeking divine discernment if the Lord continues to confirm direction, in courage and resolve we need to walk in obedience to whatever God has revealed.
Let's decide we will not be instruments of discouragement in the family of God. If genuine caution needs to be given it can be expressed in a loving, caring, sympathetic way. Life is challenging and we need to surround ourselves with those who will celebrate with us, encouraging great steps of faith. The Lord has land for you to enter. Join hands with those who will pray you forward, cheering you on and giving God glory!
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