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We have all been disappointed. I don’t have to give examples, because I know there is some sort of disappointment in your recent past. Maybe even today.
Every disappointment is based on wanting something other than what you got. Disappointment is from an expectation or hope that didn’t come to pass.
Disappointment may sound trivial, but it is not. In fact, if we don’t deal with disappointment, it may start a chain of increasing disaster.
Ok, so you may think I overstated that. I didn’t.
Kay Arthur, in Learning to Embrace Life’s Disappointments, talks about the Five Deadly D’s: Disappointment, Discouragement, Dejection, Despair, Demoralization.
I’ve seen a similar chain that included damage with family felationships.
Deal with disappointment NOW
Quickly recognize disappointment. Don’t ignore it. Don’t minimize it. Deal with it.
Remind yourself that your loving sovereign is in control and caused or allowed the situation. As Kay says: “Change “disappointment” to “HISappointment.”
Prayerfully discern whether you need to (or even can) change the situation. If so, get on it.
Prayerfully consider the cause. Did you have ungodly or unrealistic expectations? Have you been regularly praying and studying God’s Word? Are you knowingly and joyfully dependent on Him? You may need to make some changes.
If He doesn’t want you to act to change it, thank Him for the situation. Be grateful. Be content. Know that His grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Beware
How we deal with disappointment is an indicator of our spiritual health.
If we sink into disappointment, we’ve started a awful chain that may lead to bitterness, depression, and lack of trust in Almighty God.
Deal with disappointment early; dealing with it later is harder and more painful.
Resolve
Resolve to give thanks to God in everything.
In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Remember
The only One who never disappoints a Christian is God.
Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed. (Romans 10:11)
Press on!
