Hopelessness – A Life Lesson?

19 Nov Hopelessness – A Life Lesson?

Hopelessness plagues most of us at some point or another.  It isn’t reserved for a select few, especially given the days in which we’re now living.  So where do we go to find hope when our world is shrouded in darkness, despair and disillusionment?  I find that leaning on Scripture has helped me tremendously.   I’m also finding that there may some lesson(s) to be learned in this season.

Hopelessness is often born out of difficulties, defeats and discouragement.  In this season of pandemic, lock-down, and restriction, it’s no wonder why more and more of us are struggling to find hope.  I heard one Psychologist say that, “Depression is covering our society like a thick blanket.”  Yet, while these things are painful, there are seasons in our lives when the Lord uses our suffering to strengthen, stretch and grow our faith.  He allows us to be stripped of our self-sufficiency.  We begin to see where our trust or hope has, perhaps, been misplaced.

We should not run from these difficulties.  Avoiding trials shouldn’t always be our focus.  There may be something that the Lord wants to teach us, or show us about ourselves.  There may be a new perspective or something gained on the other side of this mountain that will produce in us a better life than we could’ve ever imagined-if you embrace the lesson and don’t resist the pain of growth.

Jesus said in His sermon on the mount, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for they shall see God.”  Matthew 5:3.  There is something special about being “poor in spirit.”  When we realize that we are in need we are more prone to seek help from outside of ourselves (which is honestly the best practice).  Those who are spiritually broken will be blessed because they will see God in ways unlike most others.  We can embrace brokenness in our lives, as an opportunity to be reminded of our need for God.

Scripture promises that the Lord remains close to those who are broken and He gives them His strength and support like never before.  Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”  

As you approach a new day, week, or month…  I encourage you to ask the Lord to be near to you, and ask Him what lesson He is trying to teach you.  Is there something He wants you to know?  Is there a deeper level of trust He wants you to attain?  He’s there, listening, waiting for you to call upon Him.  Don’t delay.

 

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure…”

Hebrews 6:19