"OUT OF THE DARKNESS" POST 76

Hope is the feeling that something can be had or will happen.  It suggests a greater emotional component than just expectation.  It is a process of conscious and unconscious reasoning, crucial in times of adversity.  It is both an emotion and a way of thinking.  It involves imagining and reaching for a better future.  

When we cultivate hope, we give ourselves permission to be hopeful.  You can tap into your imagination and set meaningful goals for your life.

Biblically, hope is a blessed assurance based on our faith in a higher power.  It is not wishful thinking but a firm belief in God's goodness and His ability to fulfill His promises.  It is a trust that endures through hard times, knowing that God has a plan for those who look to Him.  Hope is a tangible reality rooted in God's character and promises.  The Holy Spirit gives us the power to hope and that in itself is a demonstration of God's love for us.  This hope given to us works to give us confidence, joy, peace, power and love.

Jeremiah 29:11

"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."

God knows what is going on in our lives.  He cares about the situations and circumstances we come up against;  He loves us.

What is worry?  It is an opportunity to trust God...

When we worry about our life situations, our minds get an unnecessary workout.  We jump to conclusions and weigh ourselves down with all the what ifs.  Truly, worrying is nothing but futile.  Worry leads to fear and stress instead of faith and rest.  Holding on to God during these times will change how you handle your worries.  God does not want you to live in a state of worry.  That is why He gifts us with the ability to power through all these circumstances.  He promises to supply our every need.  God wants you to look to Him and have faith.

I used to worry and overthink everything.  With my growth spiritually, I have gotten to the point, I do not dwell on things anymore.  I have lots of faith inside me, and I have been released from the part of me that would spend so much time and energy worrying over this or that.  And you know what?  God has never failed to take care of all the issues that I would find myself worrying over.  My faith grows stronger every day and gives me the assurance of a brighter tomorrow; a hopeful heart...