Life is filled with moments of joy and triumph, but it also presents us with challenges and disappointments that test our faith and perseverance. Whether it’s a failed plan, an unanswered prayer, or an unexpected setback, disappointments can leave us feeling discouraged and uncertain. However, the Bible and the writings of Ellen G. White remind us that disappointments are not the end of the story. They are often stepping stones to a greater purpose, refining our character and drawing us closer to God.
Trusting in God Despite Disappointments
When we face disappointments, it is easy to lean on our own understanding and feel overwhelmed. However, the Bible reminds us that our trust should remain in God:
Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
God sees the bigger picture. What may seem like a setback to us is often a redirection toward something better.
Psalms 34:17-19 (KJV): “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
When we cry out to God in disappointment, He is near. He understands our pain and has promised to deliver us in His perfect timing.
Disappointments as a Path to Spiritual Growth
Instead of seeing disappointment as a defeat, we can view it as an opportunity to grow in faith and patience.
James 1:2-4 (KJV): “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
Every disappointment is a lesson. It teaches us patience and shapes us into stronger, more faithful individuals.
Romans 8:28 (KJV): “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Even when things don’t go according to our plans, God is still working everything for our ultimate good.
Finding Strength in God During Disappointments
Disappointments can make us feel weak, but God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness:
Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
No matter how great our disappointment, we are never alone. God is with us, strengthening us through the trials.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (KJV): “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”
Our present disappointments are temporary. They prepare us for greater blessings in this life and in eternity.
Ellen G. White on Disappointments: A Divine Perspective
Ellen G. White provides profound insights into how God uses disappointments to refine and redirect us:
“God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as coworkers with Him.” (Ministry of Healing, p. 479)
If we could see the full picture, we would understand that God’s plans are always for our best.
“Often our plans fail that God’s plans for us may succeed.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 473)
What we perceive as failure is often God’s way of leading us to something greater.
The Great Disappointment of 1844: A Lesson in Faith
One of the most profound lessons in Adventist history is the Great Disappointment of 1844, when believers expected Christ’s return but were met with heartbreak. Ellen G. White reflected on this moment, showing how disappointments can lead to greater understanding and faith:
“In the future life the mysteries that here have annoyed and disappointed us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly unanswered prayers and disappointed hopes have been among our greatest blessings.” (Ministry of Healing, p. 474)
Just as the disciples were disappointed at Christ’s crucifixion before realizing the glory of His resurrection, so too must we trust that our disappointments will reveal God’s greater purpose in time.
Encouragement for Today: Holding Onto Faith
If you are facing disappointment today, remember:
God is with you in your pain and hears your prayers.
Disappointments are not the end; they are a redirection toward something better.
Your faith is being strengthened through trials.
God’s plan is always greater than our own.
What seems like a setback today may be a testimony tomorrow.
Let us trust in God’s perfect plan, knowing that our disappointments are paving the way for something greater.
Final Thoughts
Disappointments can be painful, but they do not have to be defeats. Instead, they can be moments where our faith is refined, our trust in God deepens, and our future is aligned with His divine purpose. By holding onto the promises in Scripture and the wisdom found in Ellen G. White’s writings, we can walk through disappointments with hope, peace, and confidence in God’s unfailing love.
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV)
Be encouraged—God is working all things together for your good! Stay faithful, stay hopeful, and trust in His perfect plan.
Amen, I truly needed this! 🙏🏾 Thank you.