Hope: A Neccesity Now and in the Future

Hope is essential for building a bridge to a productive, fulfilling future because hope is necessary for getting started and bringing to fulfillment most goals and plans. Hope is the secret that makes the future appealing and something to be pursued.

On the other hand, Proverbs 13:12 notes, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." This implies that hope is essential to possessing a positive attitude now and in the future. What causes hope to be put on hold is negative thinking created by discouragement as well as the inclination to give up on what was important and significant.

The second part of verse 12 has this to say, "When hopes and dreams are realized, life is energized with joy and strength." Isn't that an interesting observation? Hope revives the heart and gives it strength. That inner strength makes it possible to overcome discouragement. Proverbs defines wisdom as a tree of life that gives vitality to hope now and in the future throughout your life.

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Hope that is put off makes one sick at heart. But a longing that is met is like a tree of life.

~Proverbs 13:12 New International Reader’s Version

 

Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone.

Psalm 33:22 New Living Translation

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Hope Overcomes

There’s an awesome, prevailing sense of encouragement where there’s hope. Hope communicates a belief that obstacles can be overcome. Hope’s expectancy is "all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purposes." Hope can be present even amidst overwhelming conflict.

Jacob could have lived with his father-in-law indefinitely. His skill in livestock breeding had made his father-in-law wealthy, but now he was ready to return to his homeland. Perhaps Proverbs 13:12 had become a reality he could not ignore. "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." So, hope encourages endurance until it’s time to go after what has seemed impossible.

Hope gives nourishment to the heart and soul until the body and mind are ready for change. Hope sees potential for the future and will risk hardship for future rewards. Jacob had to prepare himself for meeting his brother even if it meant his death. Hope springs eternal in every heart where Christ Jesus resides. God bless you.