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| Life's eternal hope |
“Hope
is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without
the words.”~ Emily Dickinson
Emily’s quote paints a beautiful
image of a seemingly supernatural abstraction we all long for and find
impossible to live without. Yet, hope often feels elusive, just out of reach of
our grasp. When we suffer hardships or walk through trials, despair can easily
nudge it aside.
Hope is mentioned throughout the
Bible, often coupled with other positive words.
“Be joyful in
hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12
Hope isn’t born in a vacuum,
unaffected by outside influences. Hope is birthed as we journey through
life’s trials.
And we
rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice
in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint
us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
whom he has given us. Romans 5:2a-5.
Despair does not defeat God’s
supernatural hope which strengthens and edifies our souls. Hope whispers to us
that tomorrow will be better, our problems have solutions, and healing can take
place.
What is troubling you today? I
want to assure you of the miraculous hope God can instill in your soul, despite
your circumstances. All you have to do is believe then reach out and take hold
of his hand. His strength will see you through.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the
LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11.
If you have a prayer need, I encourage you to leave a request in the comments below, even
anonymously, so others can pray for you. Feel free to email me confidential
requests. The permanent prayer list is at the top of the blog. Please take a
moment to lift those folks up in prayer, as well. If you have a praise report, I’d
love to hear it! J
Prayer request from Betty: After having emergency surgery,
her Uncle Jerry was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He’s in a great deal of
pain. He is in his 70s. Also pray for the three young teenagers of her late
cousin he takes care of. Those poor kids have been shuffled around so much.
This is the first time they’ve had any stability in their young lives and a
church home. Also pray that he truly knows the Lord. The kids' names are Buddy,
Elisa, and Evoyna.
As we take our petitions and
intercessions to the Lord, enjoy a moment of worship with Brandon Heath’s “Your
Love.”
Betty Maye was the winner of last
week’s book giveaway, “The Liberty of Obedience,” by Elisabeth Elliot. Hope you
enjoy the book as much as I have, Betty. Stay tuned for more giveaways in the
future. God bless you all!
Shalom,
Laura
✞
©Laura Hodges Poole
Laura wonderful post as usual. The message goes along with Dr. Charles Stanley's message this past Sunday. He talked about whatever trial we are going through to know it is God's will because He is allowing it. He said to know that good will come out of all trials if we stay strong in God.
ReplyDeleteWow- I won the book! Thanks I look forward to a good read.
Congrats on the book, Betty!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the uplifting post, Laura. God bless and keep you and yours.