i. to gain a better understanding of frustration and its causes and
ii. to examine how best to overcome frustrating moments in our Christian lives.
Frustration is when hope and anticipated outcome failed to materialize. Frustration is a psychological issue, which, if not properly handled can lead to depression and eventually death. It is a state of extreme hopelessness and despair. Elijah untimely resigned from the ministry due to frustration and threat to his life by Jezebel and thereafter wished God to take his life (Vs 4).
1. How do you understand frustration in our study context today?
2. What are the factors for frustrations from the following passages 1Sam 1:5 – 7; 1Kings 19:4, 9 - 10?
3. What is the way out for the troubled or frustrated soul? Ps. 42:5 - 6, 11; Prov. 4:23; Acts 16:24-26.
4. How can Christians passing through difficult situations resulting to frustration be helped? Deut.15:11;2Thess 3:1-2; Jam 5:14-16.
The truth is, suicide and taking of one’s life is not the solution to frustration; the way out is to open up to God and seek counsel before Satan will manipulate the situation to one’s disadvantage. Frustration should make us move closer to God and not otherwise.
Frustration is inevitable. However, God’s grace for encouragement is always accessible.
Ps. 42:5 "Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted withinme? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help".