A Sunday View From a Pew: Discouraged, Disparaged, Disappointed and Dissuaded — But Never Defeated

For many of us, a new year brings resolutions—some personal, some professional. Some are realistic, and some are not. For those of you contemplating going into business for yourself, let me say this plainly: I commend you. There is nothing quite like economic independence.

But allow me to share what I’ve learned.

Most of us underestimate the time it takes to achieve anything of lasting value. Entrepreneurship is not easy, and it is not for everybody. Every business owner, at some point, will face moments that feel insurmountable—moments when doubt creeps in, resources run low, and doors slam shut.

You have to be willing to confront discomfort, distractions, and uncertainty—and still move forward.

Over the years, I’ve learned that what sustains people through repeated failures is not talent alone, nor opportunity, nor even timing. It is purpose and persistence. That is what separates those who achieve from those who only dream.

That’s why the Apostle Paul reminds us: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

I know this lesson personally.

Two weeks before printing my very first newspaper, I contacted a well-known local paper that owned its own printing press. Having worked there for years, I knew the people and understood their operations. I called with confidence, explained that I was launching a new newspaper, and asked about printing costs.

The response caught me off guard.

“Why would you want to do that,” he asked, “when there’s already a minority newspaper? Aren’t you just going to copy what they’re doing?”

I explained our vision and our mission. He interrupted and told me the only way they would print our paper was if we provided our content on Mondays for a Thursday distribution.

I thanked him for his time and hung up.

The problem was simple—and terrifying: I had no printer, no backup plan, and a deadline fast approaching.

I was angry. I was discouraged. And I was unsure what to do next.

But I didn’t quit.

Two days later, I made another call—this time using nothing but faith and determination. That printer welcomed us without hesitation. The company that turned us away? They’re no longer in the printing business.

What I learned that day is something I’ve seen proven over and over again: when people close doors in your face, God opens windows you didn’t even know to look for.

As I reflect on the journey, there were times when my money was funny and my change was strange. Times when people questioned my credibility, doubted my intentions, or dismissed the work altogether. I’ve been maligned, discouraged, disappointed, and disparaged.

But never defeated.

Along the way, I’ve learned another hard truth: everyone who starts with you will not finish with you. Some people are in your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. And sometimes, you have to let go in order to grow.

 “God takes us where He wants us to go, and He equips us with the tools we need—if we use them correctly.”

I believe that with everything in me.

Before you give in to discouragement, disappointment, doubt, or despair, take inventory of what God has already done for you. Remember the doors He opened that you thought were permanently closed. Recall the situations He brought you through that should have broken you.

Write them down. Keep a record. Refer to them often.

Those memories will fuel gratitude for yesterday’s blessings and give you confidence for whatever tomorrow brings.

Life will throw you curveballs. Some will sting. Some will knock you down. Purpose and persistence don’t guarantee ease—but they do guarantee endurance. And as long as you keep moving, keep believing, and keep trusting, defeat is never final.

That’s my view—from a pew on this Sunday.