Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
HOPE - confident desire...earnest expectation...trust...the promise of the future... I have noticed that people tend to place themselves into one of two categories: 1) hopeful or 2) hopeless. As I have thought about that, I have asked myself why? What is 'it' that determines if a person is hopeful or hopeless? Having the right perspective when faced with challenging times is definitely necessary. However, I was reminded that there is another factor involved in under-girding hope and that factor is fulfillment.
It is said that around 1650, the English theologian and historian Thomas Fuller appears to be the first person to commit to print the notion that 'the darkest hour is just before the dawn'. The meaning of this phrase - there is hope even in the worst circumstances. Over the years, I have heard other phrases used to encourage others during difficult times, like 'this too shall pass', 'trouble don't last always' and 'weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning'. It does make a huge difference, when people are around that encourage and help keep us focused on the goal. People that will speak words of life not despair or defeat.
Have you ever felt extreme pressure to give up, cave in or quit; to say something in opposition of what you desire? When this occurs (notice I didn't say if, because it will), you must surround yourself with others that will stand with you, speaking life and victory. Earlier I mentioned that fulfillment is involved in under girding hope. Fulfill means to achieve, satisfy or complete something. When you breakthrough to the other side of hope and receive, there is a confidence that comes upon you. The next time you are faced with a challenge, you are more likely to push through because you have already experienced victory. Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick, but a sudden breakthrough can turn life around.
One of my favorite scriptures is Isaiah 40:31, "Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." Where is your hope? The pressure may be on, so to speak, but Galatians 6:9, says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This is your time to win. This is your time for breakthrough. Manifestation is closer than you think. Be encouraged today...and take the opportunity to encourage someone else!
You were created for greatness!
Minister LaShorne Zarlengo
RSS Feed