It is truly sobering to observe how many different ways a person’s life can fall apart; and to see how many avenues there are that can lead to feelings of hopelessness. But thankfully, it is even more astonishing to get a glimpse of the innumerable ways that God works in this fallen world to redeem and restore broken souls. To those who are in a state of despair – you are closer to finding hope than you think. To those who have given up on life and on themselves – purpose is nearer than you imagine.
When we feel hopeless, it may seem as though we’ve reached the end, but a new starting point is at our feet waiting to be welcomed. It may appear that life has nothing more to offer, but when we finally see through the vain externals of this world, we are in a far better position to receive the truth and the transforming power of God than those who hope in their own strength, who trust in their own goodness, and who glory in their own achievements. We need to get to the end of ourselves before we can start trusting in God for the answers.
When life has resulted in deep wounds and scars, people tend to operate out of a position of self-defense – which for some looks like pride, anger, lashing out, or manipulation; and for others looks like withdrawal, self-hatred, over-indulgence, or passivity. Letting go of self-centeredness is a scary thing because most of us don’t know who we’d be without it. God created each of us as wonderfully unique individuals, but to experience the fulfillment of that uniqueness and special purpose, we need to operate with, and not against the intentions of our Creator.
How can we keep from losing hope when our plans and efforts have failed? . . By acknowledging that God has, by His grace, brought us to a place where we have no other option but to trust Him alone. His relentless love calls us to trust Him as the only way, the only truth and the only life that offers lasting good. There is great freedom in finally realizing that we can’t do it ourselves, and great relief in discovering that there is a compassionate Savior who is willing to do it with us and for us – to redeem us and restore us to the purpose He had in mind from the beginning.
The anxiety of hopelessness turns to peace when we realize that we don’t need to pave the way, but need only to walk in the way that has been set before us. No depth of darkness is beyond the reach of His light. Seek truth from the One who authored truth and who is truth. Believe in the words of Jesus. He is the hope that overcomes brokenness and despair.
Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who have been called according to His purpose.”
by Laura Culpepper, Co-Founder & Mission Director
