The Wonder of Hope

Our Bible word for today is found in Psalm 42:11.

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Imagine going to the doctor with an illness. The doctor runs all the tests and then tells you the result. What you want to hear are words of hope. The saddest words you could hear are “no hope.” 

Those who have hope have a reason for joy. Hope is the anchor that holds us steady in life’s tumultuous seas. Hope is an unyielding belief in a future that can be better, brighter, and more fulfilling than the present.

In a world that often seems shrouded in uncertainty and despair, hope is the quiet voice at the end of the day whispering, “Tomorrow will be better.” Hope is not just wishful thinking.

It is not mere optimism. While optimism is the general expectation that good things will happen, hope is more specific. It’s the belief that even in our worst moments, there’s the possibility for change and growth. Hope requires an object or a goal for which we are reaching, whether it’s fighting a sickness or overcoming a challenging life obstacle.

In difficult times, hope can be scarce. Yet, it’s precisely in these difficult moments that hope’s power is most needed. Hope provides the courage to face challenges, the strength to continue when we feel like giving up, and the vision to see beyond the immediate obstacle. It’s a reminder that circumstances can change, that endings can be new beginnings, and that no matter how tough things get, there’s always the potential for good change.

Hope is Israel coming out of 400 years of slavery.
Hope is Noah building a boat for 600 years, waiting for a flood.
Hope is Abraham going to the mountain with his son, saying God will provide the lamb.
Hope is Joseph in prison believing that things will get better.
Hope is baby Jesus in the manger.

To have hope is to hold onto the promise of a better tomorrow and to trust that even in our darkest hours, things will get better.

Lonnie Davis