2. Discouragement…WE ALL FACE IT
This morning we started a 3 month study on the subject of discouragement.
Over the length of this very informal approach to our “study” we’ll:
Create a prayer list among those willing to share their personal current struggles of discouragement.
Discuss ways to deal with and hopefully overcome these moments or seasons of discouragement.

3. One Reason For Discouragement Misplaced Hope
Far too many times we – as Christians – can lose site of this fundamental truth:
Governments (political leaders) fail us.
Organizations
Faithful Christian leaders fail us.
Parents fail us.
Etc.

4. Purpose of Song (Verse 1)
To remind us where our hope lies – in Christ and Him alone.
The message (1st verse) starts with a firm conviction that our individual hope and love rests in Christ.
So, in a variety of ways, our hope in Him is based upon who He is (our Cornerstone, Comforter, All in All)
For this reason we’re able to weather any trial (storms, droughts, strivings) that comes our way.

5. What Gives Us Hope – The Gospel Message! (Verses 2)
His entry into the world (Jn. 1:1; Matt. 1:23) till His death (Jn. 19:30).
All this because God so loved the world (Jn. 3:16) though hated by the world (Jn. 15:25).
But this was what God deemed necessary to satisfy His wrath. 1 Tim. 1:15; Rom. 3:26
His death is what gives us (believers) life!

6. The Reason for Our Life – Christ’s Death & Resurrection! (Verse 3)
It is Christ’s sufficient death/resurrection that is the foundation of our faith, hope and victory over sin! 1 Cor. 15:55-57; Eph. 1:7ff

7. What This Hope Builds in Me… Powerful, Faithful Living (Verse 4)
Guilt and fear vanish and is replaced by Christ’s power in us.
For this reason we live knowing that Jesus is our sovereign Lord.
And because He is Lord of lords, nothing can separate Christ from those who belong to Him.
In His power we stand. 2 Tim. 1:7