We get discouraged sometimes. Life is a series of ups and downs. It's but normal to experience the negative emotion. Most often, I wouldn't let discouragement define my day.
Browsing again my journal, I was reminded by this simple story:
The devil once advertised his tools for sale at
public auction. His tools are Malice, Hatred, Envy, Jealousy, Sensuality,
Deceit and more. A lot of buyers came to
see and noticed one oddly shaped tool which was labeled "Not for
sale." Asked to explain why, the devil answered, "I can spare my
other tools, but I cannot spare this one. It is called Discouragement! That’s my most useful implement.”
Puzzled, one boy asked why. The devil answered: “Using that tool, I can work my way into a man’s heart. When I
get this piece into his heart, the way is open to plant anything there I may
desire.”
In other words, if we are discouraged long enough, we become an easy prey for the devil. We may take some actions not even bothered whether it's right or wrong.
The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments
of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes,
and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me.' ~Billy Graham
Do not be discouraged if your plans do not succeed the first
time. No one learns to walk by taking only one step. ~Catherine Pulsifer
Seeds of discouragement will not grow in the thankful heart. ~unknown
