Embracing Hope in Challenging Times: Finding Optimism Through Faith

Exploring the Transformative Power of Hope and God's Promise in Overcoming Life's Hurdles.

Can you imagine what it would be like to live without HOPE or a sense of optimism?

Psalm 62:5 – “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my HOPE comes from Him”

Unfortunately, in today's world, many live without HOPE. A good friend of ours who works in the inner city of Grand Rapids told us that many young men live without hope. They feel locked and cannot get out of their current situation. They have no dreams, sense of opportunity, or anticipation of what tomorrow might bring. They get through the day but are unsure of a tomorrow—a pretty dire situation for some.

Also, many studies have verified that people with hope and a sense of optimism have better life outcomes. Be it with health, business, or life issues in general. Those who give up and no longer think they can get out of their situation do not achieve the same outcomes as those who go into life challenges with a sense of optimism. 

Helen Keller said, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement; nothing can be done without HOPE.”

If you are like us, there are days when we get overcome with life's challenges. Business issues, marriage issues, kid issues, schedules that get fuller and fuller, finance and money matters, etc.   None of us are immune from having life close in on us and drain us of our energy and drive.   The key is, what do we do when this happens?

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future”

Unfortunately, God does not promise us a life without challenges. However, HE does promise that if we take time to focus on HIM and communicate with HIM through prayer, HE will be our partner as we work through various life situations.

In addition, He recommends we stay in relationship with other Christians who can walk alongside us.   This is one of the reasons we started Seven24. We think men can benefit from being in a relationship with other Christian men who may have had similar life experiences and can be a resource as you sort through your issues.

Proverbs 17:7 says, “A friend love at ALL times and a brother is born for times of adversity”

Hopefully, you have that "friend" in your life. Please let us know if you do not and would like to talk about how you might find one. As you go into a new week, may you be reminded of God's love and that HE will NEVER leave you, no matter your life situation. HE offers the promise of HOPE and optimism like no other.

He died on the cross specifically for YOU to have eternal HOPE.