Hope Beyond CircumstancesSample

Hope in Despair

The Bible often recognizes self-dialogue, allowing us to glimpse the inner narrative of one of the heroes of faith. We all maintain a continuous dialogue with ourselves, even if we don’t do it intentionally. Psalm 42 eavesdrops on common inner dialogue.

Desperation is an emotion that any of us can experience: the feeling that we have lost everything, that no one can come to our aid, or that the evil that has come is irreparable. Our minds are clouded in those moments, and our hearts are troubled because we don't see a way out of the situation or problem.

When we are in that situation, we must stop and ask our soul: “Why are you desperate?” Our emotions are real, but viewing them through the lens of faith may help us change our perspective.

When we enter the valleys of life, our emotions can go into hyperdrive, our thoughts can swirl, and we can imagine the worst. We feel out of control, confused, frustrated, and insecure. And we forget that God exists and is at hand.

But there is a way out. And it has to do with self-conversation. We must bring our emotion-laden soul into reality and place it before God. This may not be natural or instinctive, but we must speak to our soul and seek faith to guide our emotions.

God is still in control. Nothing happens that He has not authorized. There is no trial that He allows in our lives without ample provision to withstand. God knows our condition. That is why Jesus Christ emphasized that He has overcome the world. He is our hope.

As tough as it may be, a desperate situation is an opportunity. It’s an opportunity to praise God despite the circumstances. Circumstances will always fail us, but our true hope is in God. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves of this truth.

Lord, thank You for being with me even in the most difficult circumstances. Thank You because You have overcome the world and will not leave me alone in it. May Your Word be the rock on which my soul rests while I wait to see Your victory.