Stress is an unpleasant fact and may originate from unexpected places and people. When a relationship or employment becomes the primary source of stress, it’s normal to hope for solutions that bring relief. Prolonged stress builds a bridge to discouragement, which presents a struggle to keep hope alive.
American prisoners of war have testified to torture and extreme conditions in prison camps, but those who survived did not lose their faith in God or hope for eventual freedom. Hope becomes a powerful force whenever a thought is conceived that has realistic possibilities for the future.
Hope demands that patience be exerted for what is yet to be, and this is where faith plays a vital role. The apostle Paul gives us these guidelines for experiencing hope and keeping it alive and active. "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer." How can this be? Ask the Lord God to fill your heart and soul with certainty that he hears and will answer your prayers.
We wait in hope for the Lord. He helps us. He is like a
shield that keeps us safe. Our hearts are full of joy because of him. We trust in
him because he is holy. Lord, may your faithful love rest on us. We put our
hope in you.
~Psalm 33:20-22 New International Reader’s Version
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