LaVerne and I meet many people experiencing disappointments from unmet expectations. These people desired and prayed for specific answers to requests, but God did not answer the way they expected. Sometimes their disappointments stem from expectations they have of spouses, children, other Christians or even of themselves.
 
We understand the hurt and confusion resulting from unanswered prayers. We have been there. We have also observed that if we do not properly handle our emotional responses to unmet expectations, a root of bitterness will grow deep in our hearts (Hebrews 12:15). Bitterness will choke out our dreams, vision and our ability to hear God speak clearly.
 
Satan often uses disappointments to lead us down twelve subtle steps to destroy us. We call these the 12 D’s of the Devil:
Disappointment
Discontentment
Discouragement
Doubt
Disbelief
Disillusionment
Deception
Disobedience
Discord
Dysfunction
Despair
Destruction.
 
Jesus tells us clearly in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Do not allow Satan to use disappointments to steal the life God intends for you.
 
A chapter explaining how to break free from the subtle scheme of the enemy we call “The 12 D’s of the Devil,” is included in our new book “When God Seems Silent,” which will be released later this week. We pray the entire book will be a great blessing to many readers.