Activate Hope

Wednesday, July 29

Activate Hope

Hope deferred makes the heart sick but desire fulfilled is a tree of life. Proverbs 13:12

During these uncertain times so many are finding it hard to hold onto hope. Each day it seems as if we move one step closer only to be taken five steps back. Are you afraid to believe that there is hope in this present day? Are you believing that this is it and life will only get worse? This is not a rhetorical question – nor do I ask this lightly. I ask to share with you that I too have had those feelings. There have been times in my life that I too have been afraid to get my hopes up for fear of disappointment and all the emotions that come with it. It may seem much easier to maintain the status quo than to build up one’s hopes and then to perhaps have them come crashing down.

Many believers may have faced disappointments before, but desperately need God’s intervention now. Which side of the coin are they going to choose to believe? Faith or Fear. As I pondered this question, my mind immediately went to Hebrews 11:1, the famous hall of fame chapter, which starts with ‘Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen’. This seems obvious and easy, but the fact is, when we have lost hope, we must cling with desperation to faith that is needed for the situation.

The COVID-19 pandemic that we are experiencing currently is causing many to lose hope. Our scripture says that when hope is deferred our hearts become sick, i.e. fearful, anxious, discouraged and depressed. We need hope. It is crucial for our wellbeing. Jerry Bridges, Trusting God: Even When Life Hurts, in his invaluable book on trust. Jerry lays a Biblical foundation for trusting God in every circumstance in life. He speaks highly of Gods sovereignty and goodness toward those in Christ. We are in a spiritual warfare and faith is a part of our armor, hope is to the mind what faith is to the heart.