Max Lucado wrote: ‘When God doesn’t do what we want it’s not easy; it never has been, and it never will be. Faith is the conviction that God knows more than us…and he’ll get us through. Disappointment is caused by unmet expectations…and it’s cured by revamped expectations…Don’t panic…don’t give up…be patient…God’s in control. It ain’t over till it’s over.’

When you’re disappointed: 1) Look inwards. David asked, ‘Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad?’ (v.5 NLT). Admit how you feel. You can’t deal with what you don’t acknowledge. Ask God to show you the root of the problem. Is it pent-up anger? Envy? Unforgiveness? Pride? Lust? Physical and mental fatigue? Be open to what He reveals.

2) Look upwards. David said, ‘I will put my hope in God! I will praise him’ (v.5 NLT). Instead of focusing on your discouragement, focus on the One who knows the way out.

3) Remember God’s past faithfulness. David said, ‘I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember you.’ All through his trial, Joseph clung to the assurance that God was still in control. Remembering God’s faithfulness to you in the past builds confidence that He’ll continue to provide.

4) Remember, you don’t have to understand. Just because you can’t work out what God’s doing right now, doesn’t mean it won’t make sense later. He ‘causes all things to work together for good to those who love [Him]’ (Romans 8:28 NASB).

5) Don’t give in to bitterness. When your hopes are dashed, resentment can set in. ‘If God is for us, who can be against us?’ (v.31 NKJV). No matter how deep the pit you're in might seem, God is on your side, and He won’t leave you.

What Now?

Are you feeling disappointed in God because things haven’t gone your way or He’s not given you the answer you wanted? Today, be honest with Him. Tell Him how you’re feeling. He won’t leave you, and He’ll help you work through those feelings.