Knowing Hope

When a setback or loss rears its head, as is common in the human experience, it's only natural to know sadness and grief. It's the wave of emotion wrestling between what has been and what may never be. Even the Apostle Paul knew this reality when he exhorted the Romans to 'Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.’

The spectrum, from rejoicing to mourning, is an array designed of God, largely because we are made in His image and have capacity to experience His outlandish love in the highs and the lows. Love doesn’t only show itself true in the mountaintop experiences of life, but the valley seasons that are difficult for any heart to weather. As the years go by, you may find yourself appreciating the beauty of not only the moments of rejoicing, but also the value in gaining empathy only experientially attained through seasons of loss. Jesus relates. He rejoices with those who rejoice, yet is undoubtedly acquainted with grief.

So the message is clear: You are not abnormal. Experiencing feelings of extreme sadness is commonplace, and even a right response in certain situations. Mourning, sorrow, and grief are not a rare occurrence. However, when these emotions shift towards hopelessness, we’re treading waters not intended for our soul. Tread long enough, and you may feel persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities; depression.

If today you’ve noticed that your thoughts of hopelessness are becoming more frequent, and perhaps bordering or fully in a season of depression, just know that sinking is not your future. There’s a reason that writers in both the Old and New Testaments tell us so frequently to take courage and focus on the God of Hope. They knew difficulty, but understood a higher reality. They had knowledge of something, or someone, who was above their circumstances.

In the book of Hosea, it says, “My people perish for a lack of knowledge.” It’s difficult to strengthen ourselves in hope if we’re not actually aware of what it truly is. The world defines hope, unknowingly, in a way that is eventually fleeting, but the ‘God of All Hope’ holds the true definition.

Reflection

In your current perspective, what is hope? Make a short journal entry and be honest with God about where you’re lacking hope. Now, what is God teaching you about hope? Thank Him for this knowledge you received, and ask Him to give you more understanding.