Daily news, endless media negativity, and the actions of people can leave one feeling discouraged about the future. Even worse, during these recent weeks, the voices of encouragement have been drowned out by those who profit from fear. So, in these circumstances, is there something solid in the scriptures about a foundation of hope that goes beyond a simple “greeting card wish”? The answer of course is “yes”. Consider this verse that describes the process:

“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 NKJV

God is the one who fills us with hope, however, before hope is realized, joy and peace must be present in the heart. They are the foundational stones anchored to belief in Christ. What a person believes to be true, has everything to do with their outlook on tomorrow. When there’s faith in God’s leadership, there’s hope in the days ahead. Even more, through the power of the Holy Spirit, it is an ever-present reality that defies the world around us. If hope eludes you, ask yourself these questions:

• “Is there joy in my heart?” If not, “Why?” Joy is not the same as happiness, it is a fruit of the Spirit. Happiness has to do with things that happen to us, joy has to do with what happens in
• “Is there peace in my life?” If not, “Why?” Peace is also a fruit of the Spirit. Jesus is the one who speaks peace to our soul just like He did in the storm. Perhaps there is a need to ask Him to speak peace into your life and address the things or people that rob you of it.

“Now may the God of hope fill you…”