Let Hope Arise

Hope is always available. Just ask the tiny little plant sprout that’s pushing through the hard cement or the forest fire ruins. The seed was planted, and seeds do what they were designed to do: grow. They don’t give up. They push forward and upward, don’t they?

Sometimes we’re in the middle of a battle or just the normal stresses of life and our hope is minimal. But even a minimal seed of hope can push forward, sprout, and grow. I get a picture of King David being surrounded by armies coming against him. Does he turn tail, run, or give up? No, he stands firm, strong, and his heart rests in confident trust in his God, his hope. In Psalm 27:3 ESV, he says “Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.”

That’s the same confidence the little plant sprout has despite of the obstacles it faces. Too often I’m sure we back off when things are tough. We give up too soon. We don’t apply the Word or fully activate our faith. We try to push forward, only to be seemingly pushed back.

It’s time we dig our roots deep in the promises of God, in His Word, and trust His faithfulness to get us further ahead. It’s changing our attitudes and trusting the Lord through the tough times. I think that’s why Paul encouraged the church not to give up but push forward as he shares in Romans 15:13, ESV. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Let hope to arise in your heart, and it will abound and grow stronger in your life.