how to beat discouragement
November 26th, 2007
I. SERMON OUTLINE:
We all face discouragement. One of the best passages that instructs us on how to bear discouragement is Nehemiah chapter 4.
A. WHAT CAUSES DISCOURAGEMENT?
There are more causes but the passage points to 5 causes:
External: 1. ridicule and criticism (verse1-3)
2. schemes and opposition from all directions(verse 7-9)
Internal:Â 1. fatigue and tiredness (verse 10)
2. draining problems - “rubble”(verse 10)
3. fear and intimidation (verse 11)
B. HOW TO BEAT DISCOURAGEMENT
1. Pray honestly and ask for help (verse 4,5 and 9)
2. Look to God’s greatness and grace in faith (ver 14)
3. Take sensible and practical action -do what you can (verse 13-13)
4. Deal with your fears - Nehemiah took steps to lessen their fear and raise their morale and courage.
The devil uses the tool of discouragement. A discouraged Christian is a defeated Christian. Take action against discouragement in your life. God wants us to be encouraged and to be agents of encouragement to others too.
II. DISCUSSION QUESTIONSÂ
Firstly remind everyone that whatever is shared is to be kept in confidence. This trust must not be broken without permission.
1. What are some of the very practical things that Nehemiah did to beat
discouragement among the people? Share what he did and what would be
the effects of that action?
2. What are the ill effects of discouragement in a Christian? a cell?
3. If you list the things that discourage you, would you see a repetitive
pattern. Are there things that usually get you down? Share with the
group one of these things that you are comfortable sharing about .
4. What do you do when you are discouraged? What do you find most helpful?
5. Â How can encouragement be a cultivated in the cell group?
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