Ellen White offers practical and spiritual counsel for dealing with discouragement: 1. Avoid dwelling on past disappointments and sins, as this can lead to overwhelming discouragement and darkness, shutting out God's light from your life and affecting others negatively (Steps to Christ, p. 117). 2. When facing difficulties, especially in God's work, do not be discouraged by present challenges. Remember that even important centers of work began with great difficulties, and it takes courage to face unpromising situations. Affirm, “We will not fail nor become discouraged” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 242). 3. Those who work for God will encounter discouragement, but Christ promises, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” God gives a wonderful experience to those who say, “I believe Thy promise; I will not fail nor become discouraged” (Ministry of Healing, p. 41; Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 335). 4. When darkness and discouragement threaten, do not cast away your confidence. Keep your eyes on Jesus, perform your duties faithfully, and rest in God’s promises (Steps to Christ, p. 89). 5. Criticism and complaints do not bring relief in times of discouragement. Instead, focus on united, consecrated effort and avoid discouraging words that can strengthen selfishness and doubt in others (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, pp. 455–456). 6. Even God’s prophets, like Elijah, experienced discouragement and despondency. Trust in God, and He will never leave or forsake you as long as you maintain your integrity (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 292). 7. For children and youth, a few words of encouragement or timely help can carry them over trouble and discouragement, teaching them perseverance and helping them succeed in life and faith (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, pp. 147–148; Christian Education, p. 15). 8. After trials and disappointments, when courage is regained, regret for distrusting God may come. Remember, even God’s ancient servants suffered discouragement, but this does not excuse a lack of faith (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 260). 9. There is no reason for discouragement in God’s work. The good seed is being sown, and God will watch over it to bring an abundant harvest, even if beginnings are difficult (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 242). In summary, Ellen White encourages focusing on faith, perseverance, and God’s promises rather than on discouragement, criticism, or past failures. Both giving and receiving encouragement are vital in overcoming discouragement. References: - Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ (SC), p. 117, p. 89 - Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church (3T, 6T, 7T), vol. 3, pp. 147–148, 260, 292; vol. 6, pp. 335, 455–456; vol. 7, p. 242 - Ellen G. White, Ministry of Healing (MH), p. 41 - Ellen G. White, Christian Education (CE), p. 15

Based on the writings of Ellen G. White, here is the information regarding Leah: Ellen White describes Leah's marriage to Jacob as a "cruel deception" orchestrated by her father, Laban, to retain Jacob's valuable service. This act set the stage for a life of unhappiness and rivalry. **The Deception and Jacob's Reaction** Laban substituted Leah for Rachel on the wedding night. Ellen White notes that Leah was a participant in this deception, which made it impossible for Jacob to love her. * "The selfish and grasping Laban, desiring to retain so valuable a helper, practiced a cruel deception in substituting Leah for Rachel. The fact that Leah herself was a party to the cheat, caused Jacob to feel that he could not love her." (PP 189.2) * "When Jacob realized the deception that had been practiced upon him, and that Leah had acted her part in deceiving him, he could not love Leah." (1SP 109.1) **A Life of Rivalry and Unhappiness** Jacob agreed to work another seven years for Rachel, but he kept Leah as his wife to avoid bringing disgrace upon the family. His clear preference for Rachel created constant strife. * "Jacob was thus placed in a most painful and trying position; he finally decided to retain Leah and marry Rachel. Rachel was ever the one best loved; but his preference for her excited envy and jealousy, and his life was embittered by the rivalry between the sister-wives." (PP 189.2) * "Leah was loved in a much less degree than Rachel." (3SG 117.2) **Laban's Acknowledgment of the Problem** Later, Laban acknowledged the wrong of polygamy and the unhappiness it had caused his daughters. * "Laban understood the wrong of polygamy, although it was alone through his artifice that Jacob had taken two wives. He well knew that it was the jealousy of Leah and Rachel that led them to give their maids to Jacob, which confused the family relation, and increased the unhappiness of his daughters." (1SP 116.3) **Unity with Rachel** Despite their rivalry, Leah and Rachel found common ground in their dissatisfaction with their father's selfish actions. When Jacob decided to leave, they were united in their support of him. * "Jacob sent and called Rachel and Leah to the field unto his flock, and said unto them, I see your father's countenance, that it is not toward me as before; but the God of my father hath been with me." (3SG 118.1) * In response, "Rachel and Leah said to Jacob, 'Is there yet any portion or inheritance for us in our father's house? Are we not counted of him strangers? for he hath sold us and hath quite devoured also our money. For all the riches which God hath taken from our father, that is ours, and our children's; now then whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.'" (3SG 118.1)