1. Discourage Dis (prefix which negates what follows) Disrespect, Dismember, Disregard Disappointment (anticipated event fails) Courage - bravery, boldness, confidence Discourage: people, words, actions that negate our confidence Opposite of the act of encouragement

2. Discourage Discouragement is common feeling among congregations of the Lord’s people Shrinking numbers: (division, splits, aging members, fallen members, no additions, studies not leading to conversions) Apathy of majority: (label active members as Diotrephes, resigning elders, preacher leaves) Growing materialism, Increasing liberalism,… Gospel meeting: revival, stir up, refocus,

3. Discourage Encouragement is necessary (commanded) How often do we neglect to compliment, express appreciation, do a favor, smile…? Admonish - to put in mind, caution, reprove gently (Col. 3:16-17) Exhort - call near, invite, invoke (sometimes translated comfort) Heb. 3:12-15 Edify - architecture, confirmation (build up) 1 Thes. 5:11-23

4. Discourage What discourages us? –Is it the right thing to get discouraged about? –Are there many things or a few? What does discouragement lead to? –Do we sin because of it? –Do we become contagious? How do we overcome discouragement? –Must we wait it out? Are we slaves to events?

5. Discouragement Series is not meant to discourage anyone –Preachers often fail to uplift with their sermons Not condemning you if you are discouraged now or have been at any time in the past –It is not sinful to get discouraged –It is not a sign of weakness –It is absolutely normal Aim is to get all of us to uplift others when they need it, so they can uplift us when we need it (Gal. 6:1)