21 Days: Revive Us AgainSýnishorn

DAY 17: A BEACON OF HOPE

Reflection:

The Dead Sea, with its high salinity, prevents any life form from thriving within, earning it its name. Yet, Ezekiel declares a peculiar promise that "fish will abound in the Dead Sea." As strange as it is, what a powerful depiction of a believer’s abounding joy and peace, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Like the Dead Sea, places of adversity should be devoid of life. But God fills us completely with joy and peace (Romans 15:13) when we trust Him through our trials. More than that, the environment that we are in changes and becomes fresh.

Consider Paul and Silas, imprisoned for preaching the gospel, yet filled with confident hope. Their praise echoed in the prison's darkest depths, reaching fellow prisoners. How much it must have changed the atmosphere in the prison!

Likewise, our enduring faith, anchored in God's Word, becomes a beacon of hope for those facing the storms of life. It makes others wonder what gives us a reason to hope in the bleakest times. This will then be our opportunity to point them towards the source of our hope - Jesus.

Response:

Are there people in your life who have lost hope? Allow the Holy Spirit to reveal their struggles and needs to you. Consider how God can use you to inspire and lead others to put their hope and faith in Him!

Ask God for an unwavering spirit even in the face of trials and tough times. Pray for a heart of understanding and the wisdom to minister to those struggling to find joy and hope.