Don’t Lose Heart

March 22, 2025 — Laura House

Whether we are grieving the loss of someone dear, or grieving because of a terrible situation, the heaviness of what is happening leaves us weary, teary, worn, and discouraged. 

Recently I heard a song written by Steven Curtis Chapman entitled, “Don’t Lose Heart.” The words were so perfect to describe difficult times, as so many of his songs are, and I suspected that he took the idea from Scripture. I began searching the Bible for the phrase, “Don’t lose heart.”

There are actually a good number of times the phrase is used, and even more times when there are specific words of encouragement directed to those who follow Jesus.

For example, after reminding us to “run the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus,” Hebrews 12:3 says, “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” When we focus on Jesus, we are strengthened and encouraged.

Luke 18:1 says, “And he told them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not lose heart.” After this verse, Jesus speaks and offers a parable about a widow who continually asked a judge for protection. She asked over and over. In the same way, we should continually pray and “not lose heart.” He hears us when we cry out to Him. He is close to us and is holding us through the storms of earthly life. When we focus on Jesus, we are strengthened and encouraged.

Read Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 4:16, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 

When we focus on Jesus, we can be renewed inside every day, even in the midst of difficulties and grief.

Verses 17-18 continue, “For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

The Bible points us to the One who created us and loves us the most; the One who sees us, hears us, leads and guides us, and is Ruler of all.

Are you battling discouragement? Focus on Jesus and you will find strength and encouragement to face the hardship of today. 

And remember, the suffering of today is earthly and very temporary. While we are still here, let’s strive to become more like Christ and to glorify Him with all that we do and say. But always keep in mind the promise of what is to come!

Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

I am so thankful for the promise of eternity.

Steven Curtis Chapman’s song: Don’t Lose Heart

Lyrics: (If his style of music isn’t your forte, here are the lyrics to read!)

One small excerpt:

Don't lose hope, and don't lose faith

Just hold on tight to every promise God has made

You can lose the fear in the light of grace

Just lift your eyes to your Father's face

Hear the song He's singin' over you

"Don't lose heart

I won't ever let you go

I'm right where you are, you're safe in My arms"