Is discouragement a sin?

on Apr 22, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Is discouragement a sin? If so, I’m consumed! I was full of life 25 years ago. I made a lot of mistakes, but I was at least invigorated with life. Now, my work and relationships are in the tank, and I’ve gone from positive thinking to dread; it has affected my mood and my faith. – C.D.

A: The root of discouragement is unbelief. Perhaps there are more bills coming in than money. Perhaps there’s frustration in the job. Perhaps there are health issues that cause worry. Discouragement is a large cloud that, like all clouds, obscures the warmth and joy of the sun.

In the case of spiritual discouragement, the Son of God, the Lord Jesus, is eclipsed in our lives. Discouragement is the opposite of faith. It’s Satan’s device to thwart the work of God in our lives. Discouragement blinds us to the mercy of God and makes us perceive only negative circumstances, triggering other bad reactions. This will rob us of joy and poison our souls.

There’s only one way to dispel discouragement, and it is not in our own strength or ingenuity. The Bible says, “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord” (Psalm 27:14, NKJV).

The reality of life is this: Life has its share of joys and laughter – but we also know life’s road is often very rough. Temptations assail us; people disappoint us; illness and age weaken us; tragedies and sorrows ambush us; evil and injustice overpower us. Life is hard – but with God, He supplies what we need to bring us through with contentment and joy. Instead of giving in to what preys on our minds, we should pray to the One who gives clarity to truth and deposits hope in our souls. A person who spends time in God’s Word and prayer will not stay discouraged for long.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)