Discouragement

Everyone gets discouraged at some point. Some people are always in a state of depression because they can't seem to find any hope. Regardless of why you are discouraged there is a way to deal with it.

Today I was reading a scripture in the Bible about King David. He was the King of Israel and he had wanted to build the temple. A house for his God Jehovah. He was likely too old and this task was too big and would take a younger man to accomplish the task to the finish. Needless to say he was discouraged. 

I recently lost my grandma and she was my last grandparent. It is discouraging to think that our life span is so short. It made me question "What's the point?". She lived a long full life but what's left? Only her memory. Her house, her belongings gone and even some of her children are  already sleeping in death. 

I have to say it puts things in perspective. So, to strengthen my faith I was reading the Bible and today the verse was from 1 Chronicles 9:1. At first glance you might not see how King David overcame his discouragement. He knew that his son Solomon would need help to accomplish the task at hand. He donated much because he did what he could. He focused on what he could do rather than what he could not!

We, those who fight discouragement need hope. We need to figure out what we are good at and what we can do and put our heart into that. In that way we no longer dwell on what discouraged us but we focus our minds and actions on the little we can do. Sometimes we need to remember that it's not all about us! Focus on what you can do for someone else! Giving is always better than receiving! 

I decided to post a picture of my grandma for the world to see and read about! She will not be forgotten! I am encouraged to know that I have her strong genes and perseverance! Even on her deathbed she had a smile and it brings me much joy have this treasure to view and share! 

If you have a photo of your grandma share it with your loved ones. Recall funny stories and pass them on. If you are the grandparent and discouraged that you feel you have been forgotten call your children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and share this story with them because they too will face discouragement in the future.

Some people say the Bible has no practical help for today and yet I disagree.

              Dolly Dele a Burks O'Neal