Monday, June 24, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

Is There HOPE?

Romans 15:13 "May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in him. Then you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

I recently read an illustration about HOPE that increased my realization about how important it is to our survival. In this devotion, a submarine began to sink when it came into the port. When the Coast Guard sent divers to save the crew, they were amazed to receive a message by one of the sailors. This message was sent by this young man in Morse Code by hammering on the hull of the sub.

The sailor tapped the following words - "Is there HOPE?" Now, I wonder what would happened if the divers would have tapped out NO in response to his heartfelt plea? I am certain that this young sailor would have been filled with discouragement.

BUT - how do you think he reacted when he realized that hope WAS available to him? I am sure excitement and the realization that all things ARE possible surfaced in the midst of his devastating experience.

Today's scripture reminds us that through God, HOPE is always available to us - no matter the circumstances!

As I reflected on the question posed by this young man, I began to think about the 16 years that my son, Wesley, has been in the U.S. Navy. During this time, he has spent much time on submarines. My prayer is that through his faith in God, he would be able to retain his HOPE if he is ever faced with a life-threatening situation while on a sub.

My challenge to all of us in times when things appear to be bleak is to draw strength from Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future." I believe that there is a strong correlation between our relationship with God and how we handle adversity. His greatest desire is for us to go to Him in our time of need. Please always remember that we are NEVER alone. He is everywhere.

Dear Lord, I pray that the words of Psalm 71:14 - "But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more" - will be my beacon of light when I am facing darkness in my life. I truly believe that You are my source of hope and that where You are, hope exists!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.