Life is filled with challenges.

There will be moments when find ourselves overwhelmed, hopeless, and unable to see a way forward. Life can be painful, but there is hope! During these times, it is essential we turn to God and others for guidance, wisdom, comfort, and encouragement.

Below are 5 things you can do to find hope.

TURN TO PRAYER AND RELEASE YOUR BURDENS
The writers of scripture encourage us to cast our burdens upon the Lord through prayer. In Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV), the Apostle Paul writes, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Prayer is a powerful tool that allows us to surrender our troubles to God and trust in His plan.

MEDITATE ON GOD’S PROMISES
Turning to reading God’s Word, the Bible, can provide immense comfort and peace. Romans 15:4 tells us, "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope." The stories of perseverance, resilience, and faith found in the Bible can serve as a source of inspiration for those going through difficult times. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light to my path." Reading and meditating on scripture can illuminate our understanding when things don’t make sense, offering guidance and hope.

SEEK ENCOURAGEMENT FROM OTHERS
Hopelessness will begin to dissipate when we surround ourselves by other people. That’s because God designed us not to live isolated from others, but for fellowship and community. The writer of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 emphasizes the strength found in unity: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." Connecting with other Christ followers can provide prayer, encouragement, and a sense of belonging during challenging times. If you are feeling hopeless, simply taking a step toward connection and talking about it can begin to help you find hope.

BE DIFFERENT AND CULTIVATE GRATITUDE
Despite our challenges, there is always something to be thankful for. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." Cultivating and expressing gratitude will feel unnatural in these moments, but shifts our focus from despair to the blessings we have received, helping us foster a positive outlook. Grab a journal and write down all the things you can be thankful for, even the current circumstances you may be facing.

GIVE HOPE BY SERVING OTHERS
Galatians 6:9 reminds us, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." When we serve others, we provide hope and then the unnatural happens…hope finds us. Look for practical ways you can serve another person or group of people.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

Resources and Connections

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