Key Question: When our idealism clashes with reality and we have to face discouragement head-on, can we respond with grace? Can we recognize our times of weakness not as failures, but as confirmations of the truth that we are meant to lean on God?
It’s a bittersweet moment—we’ve officially reached the finale of Season 2! Over the past few months, we’ve had the privilege of learning from 9 incredible guests here on Just Neighbors, and we couldn’t have picked a better guest to close out this season.
In this episode, we are talking about how we can continue to be Just Neighbors even when we’re discouraged by challenging ourselves to view disillusionment as a gift.
The truth is, many philanthropic endeavors begin with idealism. We envision bold action, steady progress, and real change, sailing swiftly toward our mission. This passion is a beautiful thing—it plants the seeds for countless ministries and initiatives. However, what many of us don’t realize until we’re deep in the work is that bumps in the road are inevitable. When disillusionment strikes, we’re faced with a choice: quit, rely on our own strength, or look upward to Christ to sustain us.
Peter Greer joins us to guide this important discussion. Peter is the president and CEO of HOPE International, a global Christ-centered economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. As an advocate for the Church’s role in missions and alleviating extreme poverty, Peter has co-authored 15 books, including two we will discuss in this conversation: The Gift of Disillusionment and Lead with Prayer.
NEIGHBOR-TO-NEIGHBOR IMPLICATIONS:
- Anyone who commits to long-term service to others will inevitably encounter seasons of discouragement. This is natural and does not diminish the value of their efforts.
- Data shows that 1 in 2 pastors are considering leaving ministry. Doubts are something we all face—but clinging to God for hope and guidance is the key to navigating times of uncertainty or crisis.
- Seasons of disillusionment help us let go of unrealistic expectations, see reality more clearly, and understand the importance of seeking support.
- Where is your source of hope when you face struggles? Do you try to retreat inward, or do you look upward and embrace a full reliance on God?
- [BOOK] The Gift of Disillusionment
- [BOOK] Lead with Prayer
- HOPE International
- Connect with Peter on his website, Facebook, or Instagram
- Connect with our guest co-host Jamin on his website, Facebook, or Instagram
Meet Our Guest
Peter Greer is the president and CEO of HOPE International, a global Christ-centered economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. As an advocate for the Church’s role in missions and alleviating extreme poverty, Peter has co-authored 15 books, including Mission Drift, The Gift of Disillusionment, and Lead with Prayer. He takes his role as husband to Laurel with the utmost importance as well as his role as dad to their four children. While his sports loyalties remain in New England, Peter and his family live in Lancaster, PA.
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