Finding Hope in Disappointment with God
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the profound topic of disappointment with God. We began by acknowledging that disappointment is a common human experience, even among Christians. It's natural to feel disappointed when our hopes and expectations are not met, and this can extend to our relationship with God. We explored the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus to illustrate how even those closest to Jesus experienced deep disappointment when He did not act as they expected. Yet, Jesus used their situation to reveal a greater plan, demonstrating that our disappointments often stem from our limited understanding and expectations, not from God's failure.
We discussed several truths about disappointment: it is normal, it is not a sign of weak faith, and it should not be hidden from God. Instead, we are encouraged to bring our feelings into the light, where God can minister to us. We also examined some essential truths about God: His unchanging love, His sovereign control, His empathy for our pain, and His constant presence with us. These truths provide a foundation for navigating our disappointments.
Finally, we looked at practical steps to move through disappointment: being honest with God about our feelings, turning our focus to Him, and ultimately trusting in His plans and purposes. By doing so, we can find peace and hope, even in the midst of our deepest disappointments. We are reminded that God is always working for our good, even when we cannot see it, and that our ultimate hope lies in the promise of eternal life with Him.
### Key Takeaways
1. Disappointment is a Normal Human Experience: Disappointment arises when our hopes and expectations are unmet. This is a universal experience, even among the most faithful Christians. The Bible acknowledges this reality, as seen in Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." Recognizing that disappointment is normal helps us to approach it without shame or guilt. [01:36]
2. Disappointment with God is Not a Lack of Faith: Feeling disappointed with God does not mean we lack faith. In fact, it requires faith to be disappointed in God because it means we believe in His goodness and have expectations of Him. Many biblical figures, including Abraham, Moses, and the psalmists, experienced disappointment with God. This shows that such feelings are part of a genuine relationship with Him. [10:51]
3. God Invites Us to Bring Our Disappointments to Him: God already knows our feelings, including our disappointments. He invites us to bring these feelings into the light, where He can minister to us. Hiding our disappointment only allows it to fester and grow, creating barriers between us and God. Honest communication with God is the first step towards healing. [12:50]
4. God's Love and Sovereignty: Our circumstances do not measure God's love for us. His love is constant and unchanging, demonstrated most profoundly through the cross. Additionally, God is sovereign and in control, even when His plans differ from our expectations. His ways are higher than ours, and He works all things together for the good of those who love Him. [19:28]
5. Trusting God Through Disappointment: Moving through disappointment involves trusting God, even when we do not understand His plans. This trust is built on the knowledge of His character—His love, His control, His empathy, and His presence. By focusing on these truths and turning our eyes to Jesus, we can find peace and hope, knowing that He is with us and working for our ultimate good. [29:22]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:36] - The Nature of Disappointment
[03:16] - Personal Struggles and Disappointment
[04:46] - Prayer for Guidance
[06:06] - Disappointment in the Bible
[08:19] - Mary, Martha, and Lazarus
[10:51] - Disappointment is Natural
[12:50] - Bringing Disappointment to God
[14:09] - Expectations vs. God's Plans
[17:29] - God's Unchanging Love
[19:28] - God's Sovereignty
[23:05] - God Feels Our Pain
[24:43] - God is Always With Us
[25:44] - Steps Through Disappointment
[29:22] - Trusting God
[31:45] - Eternal Perspective
[34:23] - Invitation to Trust
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 11:1-44 - The story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.
2. Proverbs 13:12 - "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
3. Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
### Observation Questions
1. In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (John 11:1-44), how did Jesus respond to the news of Lazarus's illness, and what was the outcome? [08:19]
2. According to Proverbs 13:12, what effect does deferred hope have on the heart?
3. How does Romans 8:28 describe God's work in the lives of those who love Him?
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus delayed His visit to Lazarus despite knowing his condition? How does this reflect on God's timing versus our expectations? [09:31]
2. How can understanding that disappointment is a normal human experience (Proverbs 13:12) help us in our spiritual journey? [06:06]
3. What does Romans 8:28 teach us about God's sovereignty and His plans for us, especially in times of disappointment? [19:28]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt disappointed with God. How did you handle those feelings? Did you bring them to God, or did you hide them? [12:50]
2. How can you practice being honest with God about your disappointments this week? What steps will you take to bring your true feelings to Him? [26:42]
3. When facing disappointment, how can you shift your focus from your unmet expectations to trusting in God's greater plan? What practical steps can you take to turn your eyes upon Jesus? [28:08]
4. Think of a current situation where you feel disappointed. How can you remind yourself of God's unchanging love and His presence with you? [24:43]
5. How can you support someone else in your life who is experiencing disappointment? What can you do to help them see God's love and sovereignty in their situation? [23:05]
6. What specific promises of God can you hold onto when you are feeling disappointed? How can these promises help you trust in His plans? [29:22]
7. How does having an eternal perspective change the way you view your current disappointments? What can you do to cultivate this perspective in your daily life? [31:45]
Devotional
Day 1: Disappointment is a Normal Human Experience
Disappointment arises when our hopes and expectations are unmet. This is a universal experience, even among the most faithful Christians. The Bible acknowledges this reality, as seen in Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." Recognizing that disappointment is normal helps us to approach it without shame or guilt. [01:36]
Disappointment is a common part of the human experience, and it is something that everyone, including Christians, will face at some point in their lives. It occurs when our hopes and expectations are not met, leading to feelings of sadness, frustration, or even anger. This is not a sign of weak faith but rather a natural response to unmet desires. The Bible acknowledges this reality, as seen in Proverbs 13:12, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." Understanding that disappointment is a normal part of life allows us to approach it without shame or guilt, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles.
In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, we see that even those closest to Jesus experienced deep disappointment when He did not act as they expected. Yet, Jesus used their situation to reveal a greater plan, demonstrating that our disappointments often stem from our limited understanding and expectations, not from God's failure. By recognizing that disappointment is a normal human experience, we can begin to navigate it with a healthier perspective, trusting that God has a greater plan for our lives.
Psalm 42:11 (ESV): "Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God."
Reflection: Think of a recent disappointment you have faced. How can recognizing it as a normal part of life help you approach it with a healthier perspective today?
Day 2: Disappointment with God is Not a Lack of Faith
Feeling disappointed with God does not mean we lack faith. In fact, it requires faith to be disappointed in God because it means we believe in His goodness and have expectations of Him. Many biblical figures, including Abraham, Moses, and the psalmists, experienced disappointment with God. This shows that such feelings are part of a genuine relationship with Him. [10:51]
Experiencing disappointment with God does not indicate a lack of faith. On the contrary, it often signifies a deep belief in His goodness and a strong relationship with Him. When we feel disappointed with God, it means we have expectations of Him based on our understanding of His character and promises. Many biblical figures, such as Abraham, Moses, and the psalmists, experienced moments of disappointment with God. These instances show that such feelings are part of a genuine and honest relationship with Him.
In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, their disappointment with Jesus stemmed from their belief in His ability to heal and their expectation that He would act according to their timeline. However, Jesus had a greater plan that they could not see at the moment. This teaches us that our disappointment with God often arises from our limited perspective and understanding. By acknowledging that disappointment with God is not a lack of faith, we can approach Him with honesty and openness, trusting that He is working for our good even when we do not understand His ways.
Habakkuk 1:2-3 (ESV): "O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you 'Violence!' and you will not save? Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt disappointed with God. How can you see this as a sign of your faith and relationship with Him rather than a lack of faith?
Day 3: God Invites Us to Bring Our Disappointments to Him
God already knows our feelings, including our disappointments. He invites us to bring these feelings into the light, where He can minister to us. Hiding our disappointment only allows it to fester and grow, creating barriers between us and God. Honest communication with God is the first step towards healing. [12:50]
God is fully aware of our feelings, including our disappointments, and He invites us to bring these emotions to Him. When we hide our disappointment, it can fester and grow, creating barriers between us and God. Instead, God calls us to bring our feelings into the light, where He can minister to us and provide healing. Honest communication with God is the first step towards overcoming disappointment and finding peace.
In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, we see that Jesus was deeply moved by their pain and disappointment. He did not dismiss their feelings but instead engaged with them and ultimately revealed a greater plan. This demonstrates that God is not indifferent to our struggles; He cares deeply and wants to be involved in our healing process. By bringing our disappointments to God, we open ourselves to His comfort, guidance, and the possibility of seeing His greater plan unfold in our lives.
Psalm 62:8 (ESV): "Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah."
Reflection: What disappointments are you currently hiding from God? Take a moment to honestly communicate these feelings to Him and invite Him into your healing process.
Day 4: God's Love and Sovereignty
Our circumstances do not measure God's love for us. His love is constant and unchanging, demonstrated most profoundly through the cross. Additionally, God is sovereign and in control, even when His plans differ from our expectations. His ways are higher than ours, and He works all things together for the good of those who love Him. [19:28]
God's love for us is not measured by our circumstances. His love is constant and unchanging, as demonstrated most profoundly through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. No matter what we face, we can be assured of God's unwavering love for us. Additionally, God is sovereign and in control, even when His plans differ from our expectations. His ways are higher than ours, and He works all things together for the good of those who love Him.
In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Jesus' delay in coming to heal Lazarus was not a sign of His lack of love or concern. Instead, it was part of a greater plan to reveal His power and bring glory to God. This teaches us that our circumstances do not define God's love for us. We can trust in His sovereignty and His ability to work all things for our good, even when we do not understand His plans. By focusing on God's unchanging love and sovereignty, we can find peace and hope in the midst of our disappointments.
Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Reflection: How can you remind yourself of God's unchanging love and sovereignty in the midst of your current circumstances? What practical steps can you take to focus on these truths today?
Day 5: Trusting God Through Disappointment
Moving through disappointment involves trusting God, even when we do not understand His plans. This trust is built on the knowledge of His character—His love, His control, His empathy, and His presence. By focusing on these truths and turning our eyes to Jesus, we can find peace and hope, knowing that He is with us and working for our ultimate good. [29:22]
Navigating through disappointment requires us to trust God, even when we do not understand His plans. This trust is built on the knowledge of His character—His love, His control, His empathy, and His presence. By focusing on these truths and turning our eyes to Jesus, we can find peace and hope, knowing that He is with us and working for our ultimate good.
In the story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, their trust in Jesus was tested when He did not come to heal Lazarus as they had hoped. However, Jesus ultimately revealed a greater plan that brought glory to God and strengthened their faith. This teaches us that trusting God through disappointment involves believing in His character and His promises, even when we cannot see the full picture. By focusing on who God is and His faithfulness, we can find the strength to trust Him and move forward with hope.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."
Reflection: What specific truths about God's character can you focus on to help you trust Him through your current disappointments? How can you turn your eyes to Jesus and find hope in His presence today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Disappointment doesn't go away in the dark. It actually grows and festers in the dark and I know that is true because that's been my experience in this season of my life. This is why I chose this topic this morning." [01:36] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God doesn't want that for us. He actually wants us to come to him in our disappointments because he wants to give us healing and hope. So this morning, we're going to look squarely and honestly in the face of disappointment, and we're going to find God's way through it, God willing." [03:16] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Disappointment is normal. It's actually a common human experience. If you have never experienced it, you are a very unusual person. The word disappointment actually means a feeling of dissatisfaction when one's hopes, desire, and expectations fail to come to pass. Basically, when we don't get what we want or expect, we feel disappointed, don't we? It's natural." [04:46] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God loves us. What is the first thing that happens to us when something awful comes? What do you say? Lord, do you love me? Why are you allowing this in my life? It's a natural reaction. If you love me, why are you allowing this? But our circumstances and struggles are not the measure of God's love for us. It's so important we know that." [17:29] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "He is Emmanuel, God with us, as close as our heartbeat. And scripture says, where can I flee from your spirit? No matter where I go, you are there. Your hand upholds me. Isaiah says, when you walk through the waters, I will be with you. When you will pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." [25:44] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Disappointment with God is therefore not, is not a lack of faith or unchristian. Sometimes we think that. But to feel disappointment with God, we have to, first of all, believe in him, right? Non-believers are not disappointed in God because they don't believe in him." [10:51] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Disappointment comes from our expectations, not from God's failure. It's not God's failure. As we said earlier, disappointment means we don't get what we expect, right? We don't get what we expect. And we expect good things. We always want good things. We have great hopes and dreams for our lives. Good things, hopes and dreams that God wants us to have, actually." [14:09] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God is in control. He's in control. Don't you sometimes wonder if he's in control when hard things come? Don't you wonder what his plans for you are? He is in control. He does have good plans. Isaiah tells us, what I have said that I will bring about, what I have planned that I will do." [19:28] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus understands our pain, and our most powerful, personal way because he experienced it. He became one of us. He lived it. And so he knows what it is to be betrayed, rejected, be disappointed by his disciples. He asked them to pray with him, and they fell asleep. So in your pain and disappointment, know this. Jesus weeps with you." [23:05] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Having an eternal perspective really is what helps us in our pain and disappointment, isn't it? So I started by telling you of my disappointment with God. I have to tell you. I am no longer disappointed with him. And I still don't like what's going on for my dad. I still don't understand everything." [32:47] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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