How can leaders find hope and strength in their discouragement?

Numbers 11:16-17Then the Lord said to Moses, “Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle to stand there with you. I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone.”

The good news is that God does not rebuke us for our discouragement! Instead, he responds to our concerns with practical help, such as providing partners who can shoulder the burdens with us.

Joshua 1:9“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

It is encouraging to know that we only go where the Lord has already gone before us. God’s is always with us, whenever and wherever we are.

2 Chronicles 20:15-17“Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”

We gain strength when we remember the real battle, and that the greatest Warrior is on our side.

Psalm 119:25I lie in the dust; revive me by your word.

When we feel overwhelmed by the needs of others, the failures of others, our own inadequacy, or the pressures of circumstances, or for any other reason, God’s Word revives us with truth that inspires faith, hope, and love.

2 Corinthians 1:9-11In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us. And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety.

Discouragement teaches us yet again that we must depend on God rather than our own personality, resources, skills, or connections. We also learn to call for the prayers of others who can intercede for us.

Psalm 34:18The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Galatians 6:9So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Revelation 21:4“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

God promises to give us all we need to endure and, in the end, promises an end to all problems in the glory of eternal life.