Hope is a Choice
Life doesn’t always go the way we want. Even when making plans according to God’s instructions, we may run into delays and obstacles. Frustration over these hindrances can lead to discouragement and even hopelessness. Think about Paul’s voyage to Rome. When a bad storm arose, the sailors worked to save the ship, but they couldn’t control the weather. Eventually, they gave up hope of being saved, but no one was lost. God was sovereign over the violent weather, just as He is over our upheavals. (Acts 27:13-26) Whether we’re facing a job loss, a loved one’s death, or a devastating diagnosis, feelings of hopelessness sometimes overtake us. Nevertheless, we can trust the Lord to act for our ultimate good. In times of discouragement, we have a choice: Focus on the circumstances, or focus on God, who will carry us through every challenge just as He has promised.
