In a world filled with uncertainty, division and turmoil, it can often feel challenging to hold onto hope. Turbulent times surround us, whether in the form of global crises or our own personal struggles. Life and its many challenges are happening all around us and sometimes it’s difficult not to be consumed by worry and fear. Yet, as Christians, we can find hope in the midst of it all. We know that, even in the darkest of times, we have One that holds our future in His hands. The very Creator of the universe has a plan and, while we don’t always understand it, we can rest in the comfort of knowing that He isn’t surprised by anything.
Hebrews 6:19 reminds us that hope is like an anchor for our souls, firm and secure. It keeps us steady when the waves of life crash all around. While no one would say that maintaining a hopeful state of mind is easy, there are several ways that we can learn to preserve hope in the most trying of times.
1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty
One of the fundamental principles of Christianity is the belief in God’s sovereignty. Even when the world appears to be spinning out of control, we can find solace in the knowledge that God is still in charge. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, “so do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Knowing that God is in control can bring us great hope, as we trust that He is working all things for our good. If we put our hope in people or things, we lose sight of the master plan; when we, as called out in Psalm 42:11, put our hope in God we remember that while we don’t always understand what is happening, we can rest secure in the knowledge that He has us sheltered in the palm of His hand.
2. Find Strength in Scripture
The Bible is filled with passages that provide hope in challenging times. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, turn to verses like Romans 15:13, which says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” God’s Word serves as a wellspring of hope, reminding us of His promises and His unfailing love for us. If we don’t spend time daily in His word, it’s easy to lose sight of these promises and feel more distant from Him. Hebrews 10:23 reminds us to hold on to the hope that we possess, for He who promised is faithful.
3. Connect with a Faith Community
In challenging times, it’s crucial to lean on your faith community. Gathering with fellow believers can provide a sense of support and encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” The shared experience of faith can uplift our spirits and renew our hope.
4. Acts of Kindness
As Christians, we are called to be beacons of hope in a world that often lacks it. Galatians 6:9 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." Through the tumult, small acts of kindness can bring hope and encouragement to those in desperate need. By spreading kindness, compassion, and love, we can make a positive impact in the lives of those around us; you’ll also find that in giving, you receive a sense of purpose and perspective for your own life. Our hope is not confined to this world. This life we live is a journey and we know that the trials that we face, while tough, are temporary because our future rests in heaven. Not everyone has that same eternal perspective and small acts of kindness just might be the thing that makes them ask deeper questions.
5. Pray Without Ceasing
In turbulent times, prayer becomes an essential lifeline. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Prayer connects us to God and allows us to cast our worries and fears upon Him. It’s through prayer that we can find the peace and hope that surpasses all understanding. We find that, not because things suddenly become better in our lives but because the peace that passes all understanding fills our hearts and minds when we leave an unknown future in the hands of an Almighty God. Just remember the saying goes, don’t dig up in doubt what you planted in faith.
As Christians, we are not immune to the trials and tribulations of the world, but we have an enduring source of hope in our faith, an anchor that keeps us secure amidst the storms of life. Even when the world seems to be in chaos, we can trust in God’s sovereignty, draw strength from God’s word, find support in our faith communities, be beacons of hope to others through simple acts of kindness and connect with God through prayer. In these actions, we can discover hope that transcends the turbulence of whatever life throws at us, guiding us with unwavering assurance in the eternal promises of our loving Savior.
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