I have some friends who are going through some really hard times right now. Serious illnesses, death of a loved one, prison, financial hardship – almost to the point of becoming homeless.
Some of them are dealing with the stress okay and getting through the challenges with their faith intact. But a couple are feeling so discouraged, frustrated, and helpless; they are losing hope. I wonder if you know someone who is losing hope?
When things are going well, it’s easy to show and share your faith. But when they’re not, it’s easy to wonder where God is. And as a friend it’s hard to know what to say or do.
Sometimes standing with them and saying “I just don’t know what to say but I’m glad to be here with you” is enough. Sometimes crying with them, or praying with them, or helping them with whatever small thing you can do is enough. Or making sure they are connected with whatever professional resources are available can help.
But whatever we can do, we are not the ones they can hang their hope on. And neither are professional resources able to solve every problem with a happy ending.
Of the friends who are doing okay, and have their faith and hope intact, I have noticed some similarities.
They pray
They read God’s Word, the Bible
They have acknowledged their need to a small group of friends
They accept fellowship and support from this small group
They continue to focus on trusting God with the outcomes
Of the ones who are not doing as well, I have also noticed some similarities.
They go it alone
They deny their need
They have stopped reading the Bible and praying
They focus on the anger and frustration they feel
If you have friends or loved ones who are in a hardship or challenge that is too much for them, do whatever you can to be the support they will accept. When you can’t do any more, or if they refuse your help, pray for them. Pray for them to turn to the One who has the will and the power to have a positive impact on their lives and circumstances.
Holding on to that faith during a hard season, I wrote this song as God encouraged me to hold on and not give up hope. Put Your Hope in Jesus
When all seems dark and hopeless Your Word becomes a light
A calming reassurance that dawn will follow night
When your only hope is Jesus, then your hope is strong and true
For He’s the One who is able to care for and carry you
Put your hope in Jesus
You can trust the man on the cross who died for you
Put your hope in Jesus
He’s the One who is able to carry you
When all of life around you is so out of control
There is just One you can turn to
There is just one hand to hold
So take the hand of Jesus and cling with all your might
He’s the One with the power to brighten your darkest night!
Put your hope in Jesus
You can trust the man on the cross who died for you
Put your hope in Jesus
He’s the One who is able to carry you
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