Recently my uncle sent me a video compilation of a number of quotations – about 12 altogether. I found all to be quite thought provoking but one really stood out for me and read, “Hope is the voice that says maybe when the whole world says no.” Since then I have been pondering upon this four letter word- HOPE.

We have just started a new year- Happy New Year to you!! It has been a while since I updated this blog and I am happy that today I finally get to do it. I know for some people, starting a new year can be quite daunting especially since an unknown future is right before us.

As I was recounting my 2017 experiences, most of which I believe were super challenging, I felt a bit of sadness as the realisation that I could go through similar experiences again in 2018 set in. Unfortunately because we do not live in a perfect world, it would not be wise to expect a life without trial, hurt or disappointment. But what if I focused on HOPE?

Yes, a few days into this year I thought about the challenges I had faced in 2017 and the thoughts intimidated me a little but thankfully I recounted the words in Isaiah 40:28-31 which reminded me that God would not only give me strength in my weary state but He would also renew my power. I also recounted the words in Hebrews 13:5 which reminded me that God would never leave me nor forsake me. Suddenly there it was, right before my eyes- HOPE.

There is something about HOPE that makes uncertain situations appear more manageable. HOPE opens up the eyes to new possibilities, it enables us to take the next steps with expectancy. HOPE is invigorating. HOPE is contagious.

It is possible to put our hope in people, accomplishment or possessions. It is possibly to find faithful and true companions to invest your hope in but the reality is people will come into our lives and leave for various reasons beyond our control. The HOPE that God provides is unchanging as He is alone is unchanging and it is upon Him alone that our HOPE should be built. 

So, going back to where I started, the new year is upon us. There are great expectations of what this year has to offer for some but for most, this is truly a scary time with an unknown future ahead. However, the beginning offers an opportunity to renew our commitments to God and start afresh with Him as our HOPE. We truly cannot do this year alone.

Psalm 146:5 – Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose HOPE is the Lord their God.

Happy New Year!! May your HOPE be in the Lord.