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In the deepest, darkest moments of life, we always need to choose whether we are going to live by faith in God or by faith in ourselves? It is important that we choose to live by faith in God for that is our only hope for the better future that we seek, and the turnaround to that better future can sometimes happen very quickly. God has done this throughout human history, most clearly in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Therefore, our faith is centered on him. (Based on 2 Kings 7:1-11, 16-20.)

When the destructive power of evil attacks and leaves us in desolation, it is easy for us to become discouraged and disconsolate. But God never lost hope for us and for his creation. God the Son, Jesus Christ, entered into our desolation and made it his to give us new life with a new purpose as one of his people in this world. Therefore we have hope. (Based on 1 Kings 19:1-18.)

We think, speak, and act in the short-term reality of the present, yet our life spans years of human history and leaves an impact that is eternal. What view should we take as we live our lives? A short-term view of the world can result in momentary happiness or dismay. But a long-term view of God at work in human history reveals that he has been at work for centuries preparing for our salvation and renewal, and that is where we have hope. (Based on 2 Samuel 7:1-17 & John 20:1-18.)

We humans tend to assess a person’s suitability for greater things based on their appearance. God does not. Instead he looks at our heart. And God is not looking for perfection or performance. It’s our brokenness and frailty that qualifies us for God’s grace and acceptance.  (Based on 1 Samuel 16:1-13.)

Loss and disappointment can leave us feeling empty with no hope of every being filled again in sight. Helpless and hopeless, we need someone to come and  bless us with lovingkindness, redeem us from our desperate situation, and restore us to fullness. And the Good News is that we have Someone who will do this for us, the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus. (Based on the Book of Ruth.)

Facing a great challenge in weakness and inadequacy goes against our nature. Our overwhelming preference is to have strength in advance before we engage. Yet God calls us to live in a different way--by faith and not by sight--trusting in the God who calls us forward to bring us victory through our weakness. (Based on Judges 7:1-8.)