“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12 (NLT)
There seems to be a flood of people who have secret access to information no one else has. We are so desperate for a sense of control that we are on a constant hunt for more and the latest information. Unfortunately, much of what is being spewed is misinformation, lies and out right propaganda. Nevertheless, we search for more, even when we know it is most likely toxic, “just in case”, to alleviate the stress, fears and anxiety. But what many are feeling is the sick heart from hope deferred. We feel sucker punched in the gut and the feeling doesn’t seem to be going away. What we hope in really matters.
“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.” Hebrews 10:23 (NLT)
Our hope is not in man, a party, a political platform or what happens on inauguration day. Well actually, our hope is in a Man, that is “the Man Christ Jesus” (1Timothy 4:5). And right now, our faith is being tested. Will we hold tightly to the hope we confess? Here’s a well-known secret… His truth will stand. His word will stand. His name will stand! And His promise WILL stand!
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
Wikipedia defines hopes as“an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one’s life or the world at large. As a verb, its definitions include: ‘expect with confidence’ and ‘to cherish a desire with anticipation.’”When this hope is in the wrong thing, it can and usually does disappoint. Our hope is in the fact that Jesus Christ is faithful to His promise! Please cry out that the hope of believers across our city would come back into alignment and focus upon Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. If you are scouring the internet for the latest news or an “expert” sharing about what’s going on, please stop it! You won’t feel better after surfing Facebook. But if you choose to pray and cast your cares and anxiety upon Him, His peace will fill you! That is His promise to you. Put your hope in what is true!
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)
