Keeping HopeSample

The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalm 147:11

In this scripture, the Hebrew word for fear is yare, which translates as stand in awe. Basically, God smiles when we are amazed by his relentless love, when we put our hope in his goodness.

Frank Laubach, founder of the World Literacy Crusade, desired to live every moment in tune with God. In the winter of 1930, he began an experiment where he dedicated one second of every minute to turning his mind to Christ. “I feel simply carried along each hour, doing my part in a plan which is far beyond myself,” he wrote. Laubach later became a statesman, and despite having no political appointment, he was influential in foreign policy in the years following World War II.

Imagine how different our attitudes could be if we kept our minds on the Lord.

When faced with troubles, instead of responding with impatience or despondency, we should turn our thoughts to the goodness of the Lord. We should not yield to unbelief or think that because of discouraging circumstances, we are cut off from God.

He teaches us to rejoice in tribulation and in hope, and empowers us to face opposition without becoming disheartened by temporary circumstances.

Pray:

Lord, turn my thoughts away from my troubles and toward your goodness. Draw me ever closer to you as I commit to put you at the center of my life. Increase my faith, patience, love and gratitude as I consider everything you have blessed me with. Amen.