September 11, 2018

"Discovering and integrating real hope in uncertain times affects everything we do and are. It directs and redirects our talents and abilities, time and priorities, material values and investments. Hope infuses our lives with joy and peace, such as we have never previously known. Knowing how all will ultimately turn out brings peace that the process will take us there.

Our heartfelt discovery of hope protects our emotions and thoughts. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over your heart with all diligence, For from it flow the springs of life.” Hope provides us with watchful care over our heart, directing life energy towards that which is beneficial. Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, But a good word makes it glad.” Hope counteracts anxiety, lifts the weight of worry, and refreshes us with gladness. The results of this saturating influence of true hope are well described in Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Hope floods our life with godly peace, beyond our ability to truly comprehend, and safeguards our feelings and thoughts.

Hope shines brightest against the darkest backdrop of all: death. When death steals those nearest and dearest to us, hope provides endurance, comfort, and confidence. Hope limits sorrow and tears when overwhelming grief would otherwise result. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 states, “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.” Hope reminds us that death does not ultimately win! Hope reminds us that there will be a day when death itself will die: “The last enemy that will be abolished is death.” 1 Corinthians 15:26 Enduring as it now seems, death is temporary. Real hope reminds us that unending life in the coming government of God, to be established on earth, is the ultimate outcome. And, as the saying goes, “this changes everything.” 

- from the upcoming book, "Hope for Uncertain Times"

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