Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). 2 Corinthians 4:16 (AMP)
No one and no situation has the power to discourage you because you have to receive it to experience it.
It’s like a package that comes to your door. You decide whether or not to receive it. Every new problem, accusation, or blogger—every new attack brings the potential for discouragement, but I refuse to accept it.
As the disciples moved from city to city, spreading the news about Jesus, they had plenty of opportunity to become discouraged. Paul said he was whipped, beaten with rods, stoned and shipwrecked. He said:
“I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from… the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas… I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food. I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.” (2 Corinthians 11:26–27, NLT). Yet Paul kept going.
What was the secret to Paul’s perseverance? He said, “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor.12:10). Paul knew how to tap into God’s strength.
Have you been trying to handle all of life’s problems on your own? Kick discouragement to the curb by remembering that as a believer, the creator of the universe lives inside you. Spend some time with Him today and get refueled to power through whatever is threatening to get you down.