Day 03 -My Hope Is in God

January 03 2024

But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. —Psalm 39:7

As Christians, we know the Holy Spirit can make us overflow with hope. We’re meant to share that hope with others. However, knowing exactly how to do that can be difficult. Most of us regularly encounter people who seem to have no hope. Some of them may not be Christians, so they don’t know the God we worship or the joy He longs to give them. Yet some of these people may be Christians.

They’re simply bogged down in difficult circumstances or struggling with inner conflicts, such as depression or mental illness. When you encounter someone who needs hope, you can and should ask God to show you specifically what that person needs to hear or see from you. For example, a single mom with two kids may get hope from someone offering to babysit so she can spend time with friends. However, prayer is only the first step in sharing hope.

Here are a few other ways to spread hope this month:
• Write an encouraging note or letter. Highlight specific traits you love in a person, such as generosity, humor or a talent in a specific area. • Go to the person and ask what they need to talk about. No matter how difficult the topic, listen and show empathy.
• As with the babysitting example, ask the person if you can fi ll a physical need. This could include cooking a meal, fixing something in their house or walking a pet.
• Invite the person out. Some of the people who most need hope are fully or partially housebound because of age or disabilities. They may feel unnoticed. Ask what their favorite activity or place to go is, and participate with them.
• Laugh. Proverbs says a cheerful heart is good medicine.

Maybe the person you’re thinking of needs to focus on lighthearted things for a while. Bring him or her some light reading or a DVD of a Christian comedian. Share funny memories or go to a funny movie together.

Scriptures

Hebrews 6:19
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain,

Psalm 38:15
I wait for You, O LORD; You will answer, O Lord my God.

Psalm 71:5
For You are my hope, O Lord GOD, my confidence from my youth.