Disarming Disappointment by Lisa Burkhardt Worley
Everyone faces disappointment in life, but how are we supposed to handle it when it happens? How do we address the emotions we are feeling as we wait for resolution or restoration? We may shift between shock, hurt, confusion, forgiveness or unforgiveness. We may feel stuck—not sure if we should stay put or move on.
Is that you right now?
The great news is that we have a Counselor in the Holy Spirit. He can guide our steps through God’s Word, through impressions on our spirit, or through dreams. God often speaks to me through dreams. At one time I dismissed my crazy dreams, but now I realize they are symbolic and when I remember them, I take note.
The important fact to hold is that if you are a believer, God is with you through any disappointment. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
One of Jesus’s names is “Immanuel” that means “God with us.” You may feel alone but Jesus never leaves your side. Disappointment only takes you down if you let it. While it may distract you for a while, and it may leave you desiring an action step, the LORD wants us to press into His presence when feeling disappointment.
We have to understand human nature. Mankind will always disappoint us, but our supernatural God is our strength. King David said, “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2, NIV). The way to disarm disappointment is to take refuge in the Rock of Ages, our LORD and Heavenly Father. He is a good God and will never disappoint us when we trust in Him.