Disappointment and Sorrow

All of us have had, or will experience, disappointment and sorrow. When difficulties discourage us, the feelings that come from these setbacks are not appreciated. However, disappointments, sorrow and other kinds of emotions are part of life. Someone may say something or do something that is opposite of what we thought they would say or do. A broken relationship, sickness, or loss of a loved one may cause sorrow. Though disappointments, sorrow, and grief will sometimes be more than we can bear, there can still be a ray of hope. In writing to the people at Corinth, the Apostle Paul said, “I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds” (2 Corinthians 7:4). Notice the aspects of this verse which are related to disappointments:

1)    People are Important.  The statements “I have great confidence in you” and “I take great pride in you” imply that the Apostle Paul was doing what he could to encourage the people to whom he was writing.

2)    Difficulties Abound.  “All our troubles” suggests that Paul faced great difficulties because obstacles and problems confronted him along the way.

3)    Encouragement is needed.  When Paul said, “I am greatly encouraged” people understood that he was being positive about the action they had taken and he was also providing encouragement and hope to help build them up.

4)    Joy is Available in Abundance.  It might seem contradictory, but the phrase, “My joy knows no bounds” helps us understand that even through difficulties, Paul experienced great contentment, peace, and unbelievable joy.

You might wonder how Paul could have extraordinary joy while going through difficulties. In the Bible, Nehemiah said, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). God can, and will, provide strength for you and give you joy that does not depend on any specific situation. Even though you may experience disappointment, sorrow. or grief the Lord stands ready to provide the help that you need. If you put your confidence in God, trusting Him as your savior and Lord, you will find extraordinary joy that you never knew was possible.

What difficulty are you facing today that is discouraging? What makes you feel like you should give up? Turn to God and put your trust in him as your Savior and Lord.  He is ready to provide extraordinary help and much joy through your difficulties and sorrow.