Overcoming Discouragement: Choosing Faith Over Fear

Summary

Discouragement is a universal experience—no one is immune to it. Even the most faithful, the most blessed, and the most victorious among us have faced moments when quitting seemed easier than pressing on. The story of the Israelites in Numbers 14 is a powerful reminder: after witnessing miracle after miracle, they still allowed discouragement to cloud their vision and make them long for the chains of Egypt. Discouragement, at its core, is a loss of confidence or enthusiasm—a dispiritedness that can make us want to give up, go back, or even surrender our calling.

But discouragement doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. It often enters through what we see, what we hear, and what we allow our minds to dwell on. The spies saw giants and fortified walls, and their negative report spread like wildfire, infecting the entire nation with fear. Our eyes, ears, and thoughts are gateways, and what we allow through them shapes our attitude and direction. Just as a hot air balloon pilot can change altitude to catch a different wind, we too can choose to shift our focus, our influences, and our meditations to align with God’s promises rather than our fears.

Discouragement is a choice. Disappointments are inevitable, but whether we stay in discouragement is up to us. We can choose to listen to voices that pull us off course, or we can correct them and declare God’s truth over our lives. We can choose to meditate on our lack, or we can focus on God’s faithfulness and provision. The key is to seek God, listen to His voice, and believe and obey what He says. When we do, we find ourselves lifted by the wind of the Holy Spirit, propelled toward our calling and purpose.

God has a vested interest in your success. He formed you, called you, and has a plan for you. The potholes of life—especially discouragement—are real, but they don’t have to define your journey. Like Caleb and Joshua, refuse to let the loud voices of fear and negativity keep you wandering in the wilderness. Instead, choose to see with God’s eyes, listen to His voice, and meditate on His truth. In doing so, you’ll find the courage to move forward, the strength to overcome, and the joy to rejoice even in the midst of trials.

Key Takeaways

- Discouragement is a Choice, Not a Destiny
While disappointments are inevitable, remaining in discouragement is a decision we make. Like the hot air balloon pilot, we can choose to change our altitude—our perspective and influences—to catch the wind of God’s Spirit and move toward our purpose. The voices and circumstances that try to pull us off course only have power if we allow them to. [11:45]

- Guard Your Gateways: Eyes, Ears, and Mind
What we see, hear, and meditate on shapes our reality. The Israelites’ discouragement began with what they saw (giants and walls), what they heard (negative reports), and what they allowed themselves to think about (their own inadequacy). We must be intentional about what we focus on, who we listen to, and what we allow to take root in our minds, choosing instead to meditate on God’s promises. [10:34]

- Faith Requires Active Correction of Negative Voices
When others speak discouragement or doubt over our lives, we have the authority and responsibility to correct those words and declare God’s truth. Even well-meaning people can become sources of discouragement if we’re not vigilant. Our confidence must be rooted in what God says, not in the opinions or experiences of others. [17:04]

- Meditation Determines Direction
What we continually think about will eventually guide our actions and attitudes. If we dwell on negativity, lack, or fear, we’ll find ourselves moving in that direction. But if we meditate on God’s Word and His faithfulness, we’ll experience His peace and be empowered to overcome discouragement, just as Paul did even while imprisoned. [20:49]

- Obedience Flows from Belief
We only truly obey what we believe. God’s instruction to Joshua was to keep his eyes on the Word, meditate on it, and do what it says. When we seek God, listen to Him, and believe His promises, obedience becomes the natural outflow, and discouragement loses its grip. Our journey is shaped not by the potholes we encounter, but by our response to them. [23:21]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:12] - Hot Air Balloons and Staying on Course
[03:50] - The Pothole of Discouragement
[05:30] - Defining Discouragement
[06:05] - Israel’s Discouragement in the Wilderness
[08:24] - How Discouragement Enters: Eyes, Ears, Mind
[09:52] - The Power of What We See
[10:34] - The Power of What We Hear
[11:45] - The Power of What We Think
[13:08] - Choosing Your Focus and Influences
[15:09] - Finding the Right Wind: Purpose and Calling
[17:04] - Correcting Negative Voices
[18:27] - Seeing Yourself Through God’s Eyes
[20:49] - The Importance of Meditation
[23:21] - Seek, Listen, Believe, and Obey
[25:36] - Life’s Roads and Potholes
[26:37] - Paul’s Example: Joy in Jail
[28:26] - God’s Vested Interest in You
[30:34] - The Difference Between the Ten and the Two
[31:55] - The Cost of Discouragement: 40 Years in the Wilderness
[33:29] - Be a Caleb and Joshua
[34:44] - Invitation to Salvation
[35:56] - Prayer for Overcoming Discouragement

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Overcoming Discouragement

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### Bible Reading

- Numbers 14:1-4 – The Israelites’ response of discouragement after hearing the spies’ report.
- Joshua 1:7-9 – God’s instruction to Joshua to be strong, courageous, and meditate on His Word.
- Philippians 4:4-9 – Paul’s encouragement to rejoice, focus on what is true, and experience God’s peace even in difficult circumstances.

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### Observation Questions

1. In Numbers 14:1-4, what did the Israelites say and do when they became discouraged after hearing the spies’ report? What did they want to do as a result?
2. According to Joshua 1:7-9, what specific instructions did God give Joshua to help him succeed and not be discouraged?
3. In Philippians 4:4-9, what are some of the things Paul tells believers to do with their minds and attitudes, even while he himself was in jail?
4. According to the sermon, what are the three main gateways through which discouragement enters our lives? ([08:24])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think the Israelites, after seeing so many miracles, still allowed discouragement to make them want to return to Egypt? What does this reveal about the power of what we focus on? ([07:07])
2. The sermon says, “Discouragement is a choice.” In what ways is discouragement a choice, and how does this challenge the way we usually think about our feelings? ([11:45])
3. Paul wrote about joy and peace while he was in jail (Philippians 4). What does this teach us about the source of true encouragement and peace? ([26:37])
4. God told Joshua to meditate on His Word day and night. Why is meditation on God’s promises so important for overcoming discouragement? ([23:21])

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### Application Questions

1. The Israelites’ discouragement started with what they saw and heard. What are some things you regularly see or hear that tend to discourage you? How can you guard your eyes and ears this week? ([09:52])
2. The sermon says, “Discouragement is a choice.” Can you think of a recent time when you chose to stay discouraged? What could you have done differently to “change your altitude” and catch the wind of God’s Spirit? ([13:08])
3. Are there voices in your life—friends, family, media, or even your own thoughts—that often speak negativity or doubt? What practical steps can you take to correct or limit those voices? ([17:04])
4. The pastor shared about correcting negative words spoken over his daughter. Is there a negative word or label someone has spoken over you that you need to correct with God’s truth? What would it look like to do that? ([17:04])
5. Paul found joy and peace in jail by focusing on God’s promises. When you are in a “prison” of discouragement, what specific promises or truths from God’s Word can you meditate on to shift your attitude? ([26:37])
6. The sermon challenges us to be like Caleb and Joshua, refusing to let fear and negativity keep us wandering. What is one area of your life where you need to stop listening to the “ten spies” and start believing God’s promises? ([31:12])
7. God has a vested interest in your success and purpose. How does knowing this change the way you face discouragement? Is there a step of obedience you need to take this week, trusting that God is for you? ([28:26])

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Devotional

Day 1: Discouragement is a Choice—Change Your Altitude

Discouragement is a universal experience, but it is not a permanent condition; it is a choice that can be overcome by shifting your focus and attitude. Just as a hot air balloon pilot can change altitude to catch a different wind, you can choose to rise above discouragement by deciding what you look at, who you listen to, and what you allow your mind to dwell on. The winds of life may push you off course, but you are not powerless—you can seek the wind of the Holy Spirit and let Him guide you back to your purpose. When discouragement comes, remember that you have the authority to change your perspective and move forward in faith, rather than staying stuck in defeat. [14:17]

Numbers 14:1-4 (ESV)
Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. And all the people of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness! Why is the Lord bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become a prey. Would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?” And they said to one another, “Let us choose a leader and go back to Egypt.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel stuck in discouragement? What would it look like for you to “change your altitude” today by shifting your focus, your influences, or your thoughts?


Day 2: Guard Your Eyes, Ears, and Mind Against Discouragement

Discouragement often enters through what you see, what you hear, and what you allow yourself to think about. The Israelites were discouraged by the giants and fortified cities they saw, and by the negative reports they heard from others, which led them to doubt God’s promises. The voices you allow into your life and the thoughts you meditate on can either propel you toward your calling or keep you wandering in circles. Be intentional about guarding your senses and your mind, choosing to focus on God’s truth rather than the obstacles or negativity around you. [11:45]

Deuteronomy 1:28 (ESV)
Where are we going up? Our brothers have made our hearts melt, saying, “The people are greater and taller than we. The cities are great and fortified up to heaven. And besides, we have seen the sons of the Anakim there.”’

Reflection: Who or what are you allowing to speak into your life that may be fueling discouragement? What practical step can you take today to guard your eyes, ears, or mind?


Day 3: Keep Your Mind Stayed on God for Perfect Peace

God promises perfect peace to those whose minds are steadfastly fixed on Him. When you meditate on God’s Word and His character, you find stability and peace even in the midst of discouragement. The things you continually think about shape your actions and your emotional state; if you dwell on God’s faithfulness and promises, you will be strengthened to overcome discouragement and walk in victory. Make it your daily habit to seek God, listen to His voice, and believe what He says, letting His truth anchor your thoughts and your heart. [22:00]

Isaiah 26:3 (ESV)
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

Reflection: What is one promise or truth about God that you can intentionally meditate on today to keep your mind anchored in His peace?


Day 4: Meditate on God’s Word and Obey—The Path to Courage and Success

God’s instruction to Joshua was clear: be strong and courageous, keep your eyes on His Word, meditate on it day and night, and obey what it says. Success and courage are not found in ignoring challenges, but in focusing on God’s promises and acting on them. When you choose to meditate on God’s Word and obey it, you align yourself with His purpose and find the strength to overcome discouragement, no matter what obstacles you face. [24:00]

Joshua 1:7-9 (ESV)
Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Reflection: What is one specific way you can meditate on and obey God’s Word today, especially in an area where you feel discouraged?


Day 5: Choose Faith Over Fear—Be a Caleb or Joshua

When faced with the same challenges, Caleb and Joshua chose to trust God’s promises rather than give in to fear and discouragement like the rest of Israel. Their faith set them apart and allowed them to enter the Promised Land, while others wandered in defeat. You have the same choice: to listen to the loud voices of fear and negativity, or to stand in faith, declaring that God is bigger than any obstacle. Let your words and actions reflect trust in God’s faithfulness, and encourage others to do the same. [33:29]

Philippians 4:4, 8-9, 13 (ESV)
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. … Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. … I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Reflection: Where do you need to take a stand of faith like Caleb or Joshua today, refusing to let fear or discouragement dictate your decisions?

Quotes

Discouragement makes you want to quit. Discouragement makes you want to surrender. Discouragement can make you want to die. We saw it in Elijah. Do you remember when Elijah stands before the prophets of Baal, calls down fire from heaven, pulls out a sword, and wipes out 450 people? And at the word of Jezebel, he goes to a corner and cries and said, God, kill me? See? Discouragement makes you want to quit, go back, surrender, all of the above. [00:08:00] (00:00:31 seconds)  #DiscouragementLeadsToSurrender Edit Clip

I can stay at that altitude of wind that is pushing me away from I'm supposed to be, or I can change my altitude and find the one that puts me on track to where I'm supposed to be. You can stay discouraged or you can change your attitude and you change your attitude by changing your altitude. That's the way it works. [00:12:41] (00:00:24 seconds)  #ChangeAltitudeChangeAttitude Edit Clip

Why are we living in perpetual discouragement making us want to quit because we are continuing to propagate and think about the things that don't come from God and if we think about the things that don't come from God we're going to go into that place that didn't come from God so what do we need to do we need to choose to change the altitude because changing altitude changes our attitude and when we change our attitude we find the place to get us back on track to what God says about you. [00:21:27] (00:00:34 seconds)  #BreakTheCycleOfDiscouragement Edit Clip

There is a plan for each and every one of you from God and one from the enemy the plan you choose to walk in depends on what you listen to what you watch and what it is that you allow your mind to think about. [00:22:01] (00:00:21 seconds)  #ChooseGodsPlanOverTheEnemy Edit Clip

We obey God because we believe God. And if you don't believe what God says, you will not obey what God says. So how do we deal with the pothole of discouragement? We need to seek God. We need to listen to God. Church, we need to believe what God says. [00:23:46] (00:00:21 seconds)  #BelieveToObeyGod Edit Clip

The roads of life are filled with potholes, are filled with situations and circumstances that are coming to try to give you a flat tire. But God says, if you will seek me, if you will listen to me, if you will obey me, believe me, you will avoid every single one of those potholes so that you can get to the place that I've called you to be in. [00:26:09] (00:00:29 seconds)  #SeekGodAvoidLifePotholes Edit Clip

Because our God can and will supply all my needs according to his riches and glories. Because my God can and will take me to places that I never thought possible. Because my God can and will restore things that I thought would never be fixable. Because my God can and will heal me from things that I thought were uncurable. Because my God can and will lift me to places that I thought I could never reach. [00:27:59] (00:00:24 seconds)  #GodRestoresAndSupplies Edit Clip

Can I tell you, if it ain't fruitful, cut it. Because what it's doing, it's sopping what should be going to what is fruitful. [00:29:57] (00:00:18 seconds)  #CutWhatIsUnfruitful Edit Clip

Can I tell you something? I want to be a Caleb and a Joshua. I'm not going to listen to the discouragement. I'm not going to stay where the other voices are screaming louder. I will stand and say, my God is with you. me. The victory is mine. I will not stay in this place. I will not walk around this wilderness. Not today. Not ever. Because my God has a wind that is blowing and it's called the Holy Spirit. And as the Holy Spirit flows and moves and we change our attitude into the place to catch that wind, we will get to the place of our calling, our purpose, and where God has called us to be. [00:32:51] (00:00:37 seconds)  #StandFirmLikeCalebAndJoshua Edit Clip