Life is unpredictable. Yet, as believers, we are anchored by hope. Hope, a sister to faith, reminds us of God's goodness amid the most difficult situations. Hope assures us that everything will work out. Apostle Paul boldly proclaimed in Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose." This statement is seeded in hope. If we're being truthful, it's easier to talk about hope than to live it. What are the practical steps we can follow to navigate life with the hope provided by Jesus Christ?
What is Hope?
Hope, grammatically, is classified as a verb and a noun. Existing in these two forms allows us to see that hope is a position one must take and must be directed or placed in something for it to exist. The posture of hope allows you to press forward even in the middle of difficult situations. But this posture of hope is undergirded by placing hope in Jesus Christ. When hope is placed in Jesus Christ we can view impossible things as possible. We are not moved when trials come our way. We walk in knowing that everything will work out. Additionally, your focus remains on the cross instead of the things you may be lacking.
Hopelessness.....
When hope fades, life can seem bleak and unwelcome. The absence of hope amplifies the adversary's voice, echoing the false notion that you won't persevere. An unfulfilled hope can sicken the heart. As Proverbs 13:12 suggests, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life." Yet, feelings of hopelessness might indicate drifting from the cross. Such despair may reveal an interruption in your devotion to God. Hopelessness might also signal that you have shifted your focus from God to what he promised therefore because you are focused on the promise you cannot be satisfied by the fullness found in the presence of God.
Hope Restored!!!
Romans 15:4 states "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope."
What are the practical steps we can follow to navigate life with the hope provided by Jesus Christ?
Reestablishing your covenant with God is crucial: The covenant may have been breached, either knowingly or unknowingly, due to worldly concerns. Matthew 6 is filled with teachings about not worrying, seeking God, and placing trust in Him. Consequently, when we worry and chase after material things, we remain unsatisfied. This is because our souls, once nourished by God's presence, is now starved of it.
Entering prayer with a heart of thanksgiving is essential. We frequently overlook the importance of expressing gratitude in our prayers, rushing to make requests, and failing to recognize all that God has done. However, when you start with Thanksgiving, you may discover that many of your desires have already been met, allowing you to view life in its vibrant, beautiful colors
Fasting allows you to be emptied of anything that does not serve God's purpose in your life. It offers replenishment and refreshment. Amidst fasting, you gain clarity and can shift your focus back to what God has done, rather than what has not yet come to pass.
Community: Surround yourself with like-minded believers who will support you on your journey of salvation. They will challenge your thoughts and perspectives, helping you to see things through a healthier spiritual lens.
Reading the Bible: This is the way to stay grounded. It is how one can fully surrender and commit to His will for their life.
Self-examination is crucial: it's important to ask if you've been hoping for things that God did not promise. Once this is acknowledged, you can then proceed to take steps to realign yourself with God and restore your hope.
The word of God is powerful and can liberate you from feelings of despair. We have all experienced the fatigue that comes with waiting. My challenge to you is to inspect your heart, welcome God into your space of yearning and aspiration, surrender to Him, and observe as your hope begins to rise.
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