By Pat Ennis Discouragement, extracted from the Greek word
athumeo, means to be disheartened, dispirited, and discouraged.
It frequently occurs when expectations are unfulfillment by
hoping for impractical outcomes or anticipating unrealistic
relationships. The greater the gap between hope and fulfillment,
the greater the potential for discouragement and anger. An
analysis of the prophet Elijah’s life (1 Kings 19:1-22; 2 Kings
2:1-10) provides us with biblical guidelines that shows us how
to stop discouragement. Elijah faced off with 450 false prophets
of Baal and though he emerged a victor (1 Kings 18:18-46), Queen
Jezebel did not share his enthusiasm. In fact, she was furious
(1 Kings 19:1-2)! Instead of surrendering, as Elijah had
expected, she issued an ultimatum, “So let the gods do to me,
and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of
them by tomorrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:3). Elijah’s
response is what I call the Elijah Effect: - Fear! (1 Kings
19:1-2). - Running away from his pr