I. When You Feel Like Giving Up

When you feel like giving up, it's essential to identify the root cause of your discouragement. Are parts of your life monotonous, or is there something you constantly fear? Take time to do an inventory of your spouse's difficulties rather than focusing on their shortcomings. This shift in perspective can help you approach challenges with a more hopeful and compassionate attitude.

II. The Power of Joy

Joy is a vital component in overcoming discouragement. You can never use joy up, and it actually increases the more you cultivate it. As the Bible says, "You can turn away from joy, but joy never turns away from you" (emphasis added). This means that joy is not something you can lose or exhaust; it's a gift that grows over time. When you prioritize what's truly important, true, and good, you'll find that joy becomes a source of strength and motivation.

III. The Role of Self-Control

Self-control is a critical aspect of overcoming discouragement. It's not about doing things that feel urgent but are ungodly; rather, it's about choosing to do what's important, true, and good, even when you don't feel like it. As the Bible says, "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). With God's help, you can develop the self-control needed to overcome discouragement and take the first step towards loving and serving others. When you exercise self-control, you're not just resisting temptation; you're also opening yourself up to the possibility of growth, joy, and spiritual transformation. By choosing to do what's right, even when it's hard, you'll find that you're stronger and more resilient than you thought possible. As the Bible says, "To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life" (Revelation 2:7). This promise reminds us that with God's help, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges and emerge victorious in the end. By focusing on what's truly important, cultivating joy, and exercising self-control, you'll find the strength and motivation you need to keep going, even when you feel like giving up.