What to Say When You Don't Know What to Say: Truth From God's Word for Any SituationSample

Life-Giving Words for the Disappointed

The forecast called for a 100 percent chance of snow overnight. In the deep South, where snow rarely happens, a flurry of activity at the local grocery stores ensued, as people prepared for the great winter storm. Schools and businesses were closed. Everyone waited.

And then it happened: The storm came and went without leaving a trace of the promised winter glory. It was just another gray, wet, dismally cold day. What a disappointment!

Granted, in the world of let-downs, bad weather ranks pretty low on the list. But even behind such small events, a subtle but sinister skepticism can creep in. It’s just another disappointment. Another mark against life working well. Another piece of evidence that we can’t trust that good is on its way. And we start listening to the enemy’s lies, which leave us doubting God’s Goodness.

But disappointments don’t have to lead us to despair. With the right perspective, they can usher in deeper trust in a God who doesn’t fit our plans, but whose Purposes are far higher and better. When believers face disappointment, we can come alongside and share in the moment, bearing the load with them. Then as the Spirit leads, we can speak words of life and hope that let them remember God’s past Faithfulness and His Promise for a brighter future.

For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor, a lifetime. Weeping may stay overnight, but there is joy in the morning. PSALM 30:5

God loves to write comeback stories into our lives. Just when we think we are certainly “down for the count,” He comes in for the rescue.

Though the fig tree does not bud and there is no fruit on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though the flocks disappear from the pen and there are no herds in the stalls, yet I will celebrate in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation! HABAKKUK 3:17–18

Great joy comes with worship. Our disappointments disappear when we remember how much God has given us in Jesus.

He brought streams out of the stone and made water flow down like rivers. PSALM 78:16

If God can bring water out of stone, He can certainly carve a path around this obstacle. Pray for better vision to see His direction!

Cast your burden on the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. PSALM 55:22

Tell the Lord about all that discourages you. He listens with love and will lead you down a better path than you could have ever conceived.

Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the LORD. PSALM 27:14

It’s so frustrating to encounter life’s roadblocks. But if God has called you to it, He will open a way at just the right time. Wait and see!

I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. PHILIPPIANS 4:13

Don’t give up. Let’s ask God to give you the strength and courage you need to get back up and try again.