“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18
There are times it seems the everything is falling apart. I am devastated as I watch the news and scroll through social media full of dire events around our country and the world. I feel helpless– what can I possibly do to change the wars, political division, environmental threats, social injustice, or the flagrant display of moral degradation? Everything seems to be getting worse and worse. Is it ever going to get better? Is it even possible for it to get better? Is our world hopeless?
I feel sad and helpless when I see those closer to me – my own community, my friends, my family – struggle with illness, death, loss of jobs, addictions, divorce-the problems of life. Because I cannot wave a magic wand to take away their obstacles, is there no hope?
And then in the quiet moments, when I escape the busyness of my life, I think of my own obstacles, the mistakes I make and have made. Despair starts to creep into my mind as I realize I can’t go back in time for do-overs. Is there hope for me?
Yes, there is Good News! There is HOPE! When God created this world, He pronounced everything ‘good’; God wants those He created in His image to enjoy this physical life.
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10
And because of God’s love, He gave us a spiritual way of life. When things are bad, God has promised a hope that there is something better coming. And God keeps His promises.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
As I read and study the Bible, I learn of the hope God offers, and this hope helps me live with the difficulties of today by keeping my sights on heaven.
“…while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
Written by Mindy Dent