Disappointment: sadness or displeasure caused by the nonfulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.
What do you do with it?
I am sure every one of us has experienced disappointment at least one time in our lives. All of us have most definitely faced it recently with the sudden change in our daily habits or through the cultural situation we now find ourselves trying to cope with from day today. Many of us now quietly murmur an emotional sadness that comes from lack of human interaction; we grieve over the cancelation of special events or sporting competitions, the postponement of family gatherings and weddings, the closing of schools and colleges, the cancelation of some graduation exercises and proms and even the forbidden luxury of dining in local restaurants or going to the movies. The list could easily go on and on.
The change in doing the things we so enjoy makes us sad. Personally, I miss not hearing the choir sing in rehearsal, eating quietly in a local restaurant, listening to Jill play the organ or leading God's people in worship from week to week. This list could easily go on and on.
Yes, we have all dealt with disappointment and, believe it or not, we will deal with it for the rest of our lives. What do we do with our sad feelings or heartache when things we had looked so forward to experiencing are now erased from our social calendar? I think the first thing we do is look to God's Word. I am always reminded that the Psalmist often felt such feelings. He cried out to God on numerous occasions in an effort to make the pain of his heart known. God heard! And God understood the cries of his child! We would be wise to learn from his example. His disappointment always gave way to praise and expressions of an undying faith in God. His heart turned to worship:
"Why am I discouraged? Why am I restless? I trust You! And I will praise you again because you help me and You are my God." Psalm 42:11 (CEV)
There's no doubt that Jesus also experienced disappointment in his life. He knew we would as well. I have always cherished these words spoken by our Lord:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NIV
This scripture has rolled over in my mind and heart many times throughout my lifetime. Every time I face something that is unexpected, God brings these words forth to comfort my heart. This verse helps me identify with the fact that Jesus knows all about my disappointment. He cares about my heartache and my struggles. He will be there with me through what brings me sadness. When I surrender these feelings over to the Lord, I give permission for God to use them in ways I may have never imagined.
If there’s one thing I would want you to know today, it is this: It's OK to feel sad or disappointed. Remember, God created us to have these emotions. To have these feelings is to be human. It's what we do with them that matters. Allow yourself to experience what you're feeling, but don't dwell there. Seek to move forward, allowing God to speak into your life with His healing grace. Allow God's Word to be a part of how you process what you are experiencing. Nothing has caught God by surprise - absolutely nothing! Remember His promises, give thanks for what is good and know that you are not alone.
One thing is for certain. God will never disappoint us. Thank Him for His presence in your life and walk assured that He will be with you in the tough times.
I will leave you with one more scripture passage:
“My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested, it stirs up power within you to endure all things." James 1:2-3 (TPT)
Look for joy in the heart of thankfulness!
Glen
