A Habit of Hope
April 20/21, 2024
Keith Taylor, Guest Preacher

While we may strive for a meticulously outlined roadmap for our lives, the reality is that we often encounter detours, unexpected turns, and unforeseen challenges. Yet in the midst of our losses, it is an act of faith to believe God is still at work and His ultimate aim is to bless us.

There are three things we must do in order to restore hope in the midst of loss:
1. The Choices We Make: Our hope can be restored if we begin to move in the direction of healing. Vs 1-5

2. The Company We Keep: Our hope can be restored through loyal commitment to each other. Vs 6-18
· Ruth’s faithful Love: For wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you live, I will live; your people will be my people, and your God will be my God

3. The Concerns We Express: Our hope can be restored by honestly lamenting our losses Vs 19-22

In a world that says, “Bury your feelings” when there is loss, God’s approach is the exact opposite. He says, “Feel your feelings and express them”.

· Even King David cried out to God in his anguish. Psalm 31:9-10 NIV
· “Cast all your cares upon Him, because he cares about you” I Peter 5:5-8
· Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
· Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” Matthew 5:4

Conclusion: Remember: God sees the whole picture, I can only see a part

I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” John 16:33