8 Ways to Fight Discouragement

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When life kicks you in the seat of the pants, or skirt, as the case may be, being prepared to fight back is critical.

Each day in my daughter’s daily battle against MPS, our family fights discouragement. The battle is so magnificent that any “small” victory is hugely celebrated.

But the opposite is also true- the nagging daily problems can truly cause discouragement. That discouragement battle is a continual problem and today I wanted to give you 8 ways to fight discouragement. These 8 points keep me focused on combating the struggle against discouragement.

1. Pray.

Pray. Pray. And pray some more. Keep a prayer journal- you can even dedicate one specific journal to a particular topic or battle.

2. Read God’s Word.

I love having topical lists of verses to help face issues head on with Scripture. Here’s a list of verse by topic that can strongly encourage your heart.

3. Keep a verse in sight.

I have a Bible verse in my kitchen window all the time. I like to use my little chalkboard to write whatever verse God is impressing on my heart during that day or week. If you want more creative ways to saturate your life with Scripture, here’s an awesome list of ideas to keep you going.

4. Fight negative internal chatter.

Over the summer I wrote an entire series of posts about keeping your thoughts from swirling into a spiral that flows the same way as a toilet. Yep, our minds can sure be a vicious cycle- here’s a link to the posts that stop the crazy negative thought cycle.

5. Write a quick list of things for which you are thankful.

It’s been said “There is always something to be thankful for” and I believe it! When you find yourself sinking in discouragement, WRITE DOWN a focused list of thanks. The exercise can pull your mind out of the slums.

6. Turn up the praise music!

The name of Jesus stops negativity dead in its tracks. We discussed this point in the negative inside chatter series. Here’s a list of praise songs to curb disappointment.

7. Rest.

When I am stretched and living in a state of fatigue, I find a period of rest. Even a few minutes of closing my eyes while sitting on the couch surrounded by kiddos can be just the mental or physical break to revive my spirit.

8. Remember that feelings are temporary.

Things change and God is on the throne. He works all things for our good and our minds can’t comprehend His plan.

How do you fight discouragement? I’d love to read your ideas in the comments!