This new year, forget about family drama, don't spread rumors or listen to stories. Instead, be the one who spreads peace and hope. For the past couple of years, we have been dealing with the pandemic and other global issues, like human rights, violence, and hunger. Many may feel like their efforts to do good deeds and follow their faith is useless; however, now more than ever, we need to keep pushing forward.
When we experience an overwhelming and disruptive life-changing experience or simply feel like there's no solution to a problem we're having, it is common to feel hopeless. We feel like it doesn't matter what we do; we just can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. Having a positive attitude is key; however, in those moments when we're feeling down, feeling like we have no one to turn to for help, we need to surround ourselves with the people we love and support us. Hopelessness is much easier to overcome if we stay close to our support system, whether that is family, friends, or our religious groups.
While our faith may feel like it is constantly changing, never remaining strong, it increases with acts of kindness and worship. On the other hand, sometimes it may feel like our faith decreases, particularly when we neglect God and give in to our desires and passions instead of just focusing on being good. It may sound like being good is just not enough to get us closer to Him but in those moments, when we're feeling alone and so far away from Him, just being "good" is a great start. It may feel like nothing we do makes a difference, but believe that everything you do will have a significant impact little by little. Remember that nothing we do for the Lord is meaningless. So, be kind to others, do good deeds, and spread hope. You'll find that there's no greater purpose than to know you are allowing Him to do his work through you. You will become the hope to others that perhaps feel like everything they do is pointless. Allow yourself to be the light to others. He wants to be the light and hope to others through us.
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. - Ephesians 2:10
Changes are happening, but they don't happen overnight, even when it feels like what you're doing has no impact. Someone once said, "we are like a tree, we keep watering and watering, and we don't see the growth immediately; we see it over time." So, when you feel frustrated, like everything you do is pointless, and you're wondering if what your doing is even making a difference, the answer is -Yes! One day, you'll be able to look back and see that everything you have done has made a difference in your life and the life of those around you.
So, keep reading the Bible, keep helping those in need, and spread love because every act of kindness you do will change your heart and create miracles
Cultivating Hope through Sacred Practices
Hope can feel like a distant memory when life's challenges seem insurmountable. Yet, it's precisely in these moments that turning to sacred practices can help revive a sense of purpose and optimism. For Christians, prayer is a powerful way to reconnect with God and find hope. The Bible reminds us, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10). This verse encourages us to focus on the good works that God has prepared for us, which can help shift our attention away from hopelessness and toward a sense of direction and meaning.
Engaging in daily prayer routines, such as journaling, meditation, or simply talking to God, can help calm the mind and soothe the soul. This practice allows us to express our emotions, seek guidance, and find comfort in God's presence. While prayer is a cornerstone of Christian practice, people from other spiritual traditions may find similar solace in meditation, mindfulness, or other contemplative practices. Whatever the practice, the key is to find a consistent and meaningful way to nurture the soul and cultivate hope.
Another sacred practice that can foster hope is the act of gratitude. Taking time each day to reflect on the things we're thankful for can help shift our focus away from despair and toward the good things in life. This might involve writing in a gratitude journal, sharing three things you're thankful for with a friend or family member, or simply taking a moment to silently acknowledge the blessings in your life. By incorporating practices like prayer and gratitude into our daily routine, we can begin to experience a renewed sense of hope and purpose, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How can I maintain a positive attitude when everything seems hopeless?
In times of crisis, it's essential to focus on your faith and spread peace and kindness to those around you. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, we are created to do good works. Practicing gratitude, self-reflection, and goal setting can also help you stay positive. By shifting your focus to the good in the world and in your life, you can begin to find hope again.
Q:What role does faith play in finding hope during difficult times?
Faith can be a powerful source of comfort and strength when finding hope seems pointless. By turning to God and trusting in His plan, you can find peace and reassurance that better days are ahead. As the Bible says, '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' (Jeremiah 29:11).
Q:How can I support someone who is struggling with hopelessness?
When supporting someone who is struggling with hopelessness, it's essential to offer a listening ear and a compassionate presence. Encourage them to practice kindness, volunteer, or engage in activities that bring them joy. You can also pray with them and remind them of God's love and presence in their lives. By being a supportive and caring friend, you can help them find hope and healing.
Q:Can I find hope if I'm not a religious person?
Hope is a universal human experience that can be found in many different ways, regardless of one's religious background. You can find hope by focusing on the good in the world, practicing gratitude, and cultivating a sense of purpose and meaning. You can also explore the wisdom and teachings of various spiritual traditions, including Christianity, to find inspiration and guidance. Ultimately, hope is a choice that can be made by anyone, regardless of their faith or background.
