Dealing With Disappointment
Disappointment is part of the journey.
Disappointment Defined
The negative emotion you feel when an outcome doesn’t match up to your expectations. It is characterized by feelings of sadness, loss, anger, and frustration.
“Unequal expectations equal frustrations.”
– Brandy Dowdey
“17 …“What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” —Luke 24:17-21
19 “What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.” —Luke 24:19-21
Face your disappointment and release it.
“4 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” —John 18:4
“42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” 43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” —Luke 22:42-44
Reframe your disappointment.
“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.” —Romans 8:28
In your disappointment don’t blame God, embrace Him.
“4 Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in; 5 hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. 6 Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 7 He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in. 8 Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 9 For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.” —Psalm 107:4-9
God will not disappoint us.