Hope is a learned trait. Our natural reaction in times of disappointment and crisis is to grow discouraged and pessimistic. For a melancholic like me, reversing emotional gears and developing a positive attitude takes real effort. I can’t do it merely by thinking happy thoughts or recalling uplifting platitudes. I can’t just hope for the best in a vague sort of way. I can sustain optimism only by burrowing into the Scriptures, trusting the Prince of promises, and choosing to believe in what He tells me in His Word.
I’d like you to meet five other people who took the same approach.
Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him
For the help of His countenance.
—PSALM 42:5
Ruth and I found out that for us, worrying and praying were not mutually exclusive. We trusted the Lord to bring the children through somehow in His own way in due time. . . . Through it all, God did not let us lose hope.
—BILLY GRAHAM, ABOUT HIS YEARS OF PARENTING PRODIGALS27.
Optimism takes the most hopeful view of matters and expects the best outcome in any circumstances. While the prodigal is busy moving from one misadventure to another, optimism will help the parents discipline themselves to see beyond the mess into the aspirations of the child and focus on those. The prodigal does not necessarily want to be identified with his messes or have his nose rubbed in them. The wise mom and dad look to what the prodigal hopes to accomplish.
—S. RUTHERFORD MCDILL, JR.28.
When you say a situation or a person is hopeless, you are slamming the door in the face of God.
—CHARLES L. ALLEN
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.
—PAUL (ROMANS 15:13, NIV)