We all face discouragement. But what can happen if we dwell in the cave of discouragement?

• We can, as Job's wife advised, curse God and die.
• We can become shortsighted about what God is doing.
• We can push others away by being negative.
• We can become easy prey for the enemy.

Sure signs of unsafe moorings:

• Little or no preparation for the stormy day.
• A faulty anchor system.
• No captain to give orders.
• Just going with the flow.

False belief systems that breed discouragement:

• Viewing ridicule as a reason to quit.
• Protecting the big "I".
• Thinking that the safest place is isolation from others.
• Not recognizing others' efforts.

Steps for staying afloat:

• Stay close to God and share struggles with Him.
• Stay open to hearing God's still, small voice.
• Never underestimate God's power.
• Rest in God's ability to raise up others.
• Stay busy and useful for the work God has for you.

1 Kings 19