Choose hope over despair

I've known the face of fear in my lifetime. As a child, I struggled with being afraid of rejection. It manifested in the form of me believing that if I performed well, then I would be loved more. Later, as an adult, having survived an armed robbery with my young children at home, fear of being attacked again and fear of not being able to protect my children at night reared its ugly head. Fear often strikes us when we least expect it.  

In my journey to overcome the stronghold of fear, I have learned that fear is not of the Lord. He longs for us to live a life free from its grips. Over time and with the grace of the Lord, He has shown me how to overcome my fears. Whatever your battle might be, you can overcome it as you place your hope in the saving power of Jesus Christ. You cannot conquer fear in your own strength. Every day, I had to choose hope over despair. My encouragement to you as you read this devotional is to choose hope.

Hope, by its nature, is future-focused. It has its foundation firmly secure in trusting in God. Hope in your heart can give you the strength you need to conquer your specific fear. In an atmosphere of praise and worship, hope can arise. So, today, if you feel like despairing, don’t give up. Lift your head and worship God. Hope in God will not disappoint you, and hope will give you the courage to continue on the journey of overcoming fear. 

When fear knocks at your door, let hope answer for you.

Reflect today on hope. What do you need to do to let hope arise in your heart?