Hope this Advent

Continuing the theme of hope this week as represented by the first candle of Advent.

I have come to realise that hope is not as easy to define as I once thought and can be easily misunderstood.

My own hope in the past was not always properly formed and I think, when I reflect back, was either a false hope, a misguided optimism or wishful thinking on my part.

So when things did not turn out as I had hoped, I was disappointed.

When disappointment took hold of me that led me down a slippery slope of other negative emotions and thoughts.

Disappointment can shake your confidence and faith.

Disappointment can crush your spirit and make you feel like giving up.

“When hope is crushed, the heart is crushed” Proverbs 13:12

I have come to realise that Disappointments can become a doorway for all sorts of negative thoughts and emotions.

Bitterness can start to take root in the soil of disappointment if we are not careful. Then those other bedfellows of Anger, Jealousy and Envy can be quick to follow too.

Guard the door of your heart against disappointment.

Let us encourage each other and build ourselves up on a solid foundation of faith which cannot be shaken.

The cornerstone of our faith and true hope is found in Jesus. Keeping our eyes fixed on Him.

I have experienced a hope formed through tests and trials. It came through the hard times. It developed in those times when I went through the valley and there experienced the comfort, love and faithfulness of God.

It is not easy but we put our trust in God to know the best outcome for us.

Not my will but His perfect will formed in me.

“We also boast of our troubles, because we know that trouble produces endurance, endurance brings God’s approval, and his approval creates hope. This hope does not disappoint us, for God has poured out his love into our hearts by means of the Holy Spirit, who is God’s gift to us.” Romans 5:3-5

If you are going through difficult and trying circumstances, I pray that perfect hope will take root in your heart and mind. Guard your heart and if disappointment or bitterness have found a place in the soil of your heart, then I pray for God’s restoration and healing and that the joy of your salvation will be restored.

Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times. Romans 12:12

Blessings to you this day in Jesus name.