Regaining Hope
Wouldn’t you agree that it is hard to love words that end in “less”—fruitless, hopeless, pointless, and endless! We all would much prefer the positive forms of these words that end in “ful”—hopeful, fruitful, joyful, purposeful, and beautiful. Hi, it’s Linda and Reen again. This week we’re discussing the restoration of hope. When you feel stuck in life it can seem to be a hopeless, fruitless, pointless time.
We’ve spent the month giving tips and strategies for leaving the past behind but you may still feel overwhelmed and fear it may not work. How we view our life and situations is key in how we weather the storms, doldrums, and times of “lostness.” The marketing maxim “perception becomes reality,” can make your life seem as if you are indeed in a hopeless situation. But God’s Word speaks powerfully to this, as Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life.” This speaks of a positive end to any time of heartsickness.
While being in a situation that appears hopeless, it is important to recognize that as Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven.” Whatever your season in life, be comforted to know that it has an appointed time to begin and end. And that is in the hands of our loving Master.
When you need to see hope restored, a positive tool to employ is a Gratitude Journal. I recall when Linda’s dear mother, Thelma, was alive, in a particularly rough season for us she made both of us a gratitude journal to write down all the things God had done for us and all the wonderful things that happen daily. When we focus on God’s faithfulness and blessings, the shortcomings, delays, and sadness of our current situation fade in comparison. And hope is restored.
Are you stuck? Struggling with despair and hopelessness? Reach out to friends, family, and co-workers. Spend time sharing your thoughts. By “sharing and airing,” you take the power of despair away from the enemy. Also, why not make your own gratitude journal?
You will notice that our core Scripture for Your Refreshed Life is Jesus’ words written in John 10:10, “I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].” But take note and find hope. Look what Jesus’ says first, “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy.” Jesus knows the enemy will attempt to do everything possible to defeat you, but the enemy holds no power. JESUS ALONE HOLDS THE POWER! Jesus tells us, “ I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding]” (John 16:33 Amplified).
Take heart, dear friend. Recognizing you have a problem (or more) and taking steps to eliminate it (them) from your life promises peace and a renewed life. Choose hope. Choose life. Choose Jesus!
If there is anything we can do to help you as you pursue the wonderful plan God has for your life and His purpose for your birth at this time in history, in this generation, wherever He has placed you, please contact us at linda@yourrefreshedlife.com.
Live Refreshed! Share Your Refreshed Life Today!
Blessings,
Linda and Reen
