Fourth: when you’re disappointed in people you work with. You won’t get far in life without the right people. But when the people you rely on fail you, it’s painful. Imagine Moses’ disappointment. He leaves his brother Aaron in charge while he spends forty days on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments. When he returns, he finds Israel worshipping a golden calf – made by Aaron. When Moses needs him most, Aaron fails miserably. But watch Moses: true leadership shines in disappointment. He confronts Aaron, takes the mess to God, and prays for the forgiveness of Israel. God responds, then reminds Moses of his assignment. ‘Go, lead the people…my angel will go before you’ (Exodus 32:34 NIV). Disappointment doesn’t cancel your assignment, or God’s presence. So do what God has told you to do!

Fifth: when you’re disappointed in those you have poured your life into. Let’s check in again with Moses, founding pastor of the church in the wilderness. His congregation is made up of former slaves who have been delivered, blessed, and who are en route to the Promised Land, but without a shred of loyalty or gratitude for the man who put everything on the line to make it possible. Fresh out of Egypt, they turn on Moses, accusing, blaming, and berating him (see Exodus 14). Was Moses disappointed and hurt? Yes, of course. But each time he wanted to give up, he would discuss it with God, pray for his complaining flock, get fresh orders, and return to work. That’s what people called by God will do when they’re disappointed and feel like giving up. And it’s what you must do, too.

What Now?

Tell God about anyone who’s disappointed you recently. Ask Him to help you both work through the disappointment and rebuild any damaged areas of your relationship.