The Power of Hope

In late August, most people start longing for the heat to subside. The heat has dragged on for months, and the thought of cooler air feels like a welcome invitation. Then autumn arrives, and excitement stirs as the leaves begin to fall.

But before long, the cold, the snow, and the gray skies start to creep in. Once again, the fresh feeling of something new greets us as we adjust to winter’s pace. Two months pass, with another couple likely waiting their turn. And just like that, we find ourselves yearning for warmth and sunshine, waiting for spring like we are waiting for our meal at a short-staffed restaurant.

The rhythms of life move in much the same way. God guides us through seasons that shape and prepare us for what comes next.

I remember working a job for a season that certainly wasn't my heart’s desire. It didn’t seem to hold much value beyond a paycheck. Still, I gave it my best and stayed until I knew God was releasing me to move on.

As I transitioned into a new season I could see clearly that the previous season was not wasted. God was training me, teaching me wisdom that I would need in order to make the most of the next chapter He had already set in motion.

So you may feel like you are in a winter-like season that is not comfortable enough for your liking, but know that the next season for you will be an upgrade as you persevere and learn what the Teacher is developing in you in this phase of your journey.

The Bible tells us that the reward for persevering is proven character, and hope.

Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (NKJV)

This mentality reveals a marvelous piece of the limitless mind of Christ. When we grow through what we go through, our character is refined, and the result is a greater capacity to host and distribute His hope, the joyful expectation of the good that is certain to come.

Hope is so powerful because it centers our minds on God and His goodness. Hope is life-giving because no matter the trial we may face, we have a promise of hope that generously rests in the presence of God.

No matter the season you find yourself in, just know that you can trust that your Father in Heaven is preparing something good for you. He is preparing a place for you to lie down in green pastures. He is leading you beside still waters. He longs to restore your soul and lead you in righteous paths for His name’s sake. He wants to comfort you as He prepares a table for you in the presence of your enemies, and He wants you to drink from an overflowing cup of goodness and mercy all the days of your life. (Psalm 23)