This past week, Lee and I went to see the Hunger Games.  We had read all the books and hoped to be entertained by the film.   We desperately needed a date night since we had just received some troubling news earlier in the day and we were both downtrodden and depressed.

Thankfully, our neighbors offered to babysit the boys and gave us the time to relax and enjoy a break.  I thought the movie was a little disappointing (the book was WAY better), but one of the quotes has stayed with me and probably will forever.

One of the characters, President Snow, said, “Hope.  It is the only thing stronger than fear.  A little hope is effective, a lot is dangerous.”

WOW…I felt like God was talking directly to me through Donald Sutherland’s character!  Basically, God was whispering in my ear to give my worries and FEAR to Him.  He reminded me that all is never lost if I believe in Him.  PLUS, he has a plan!!

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Here, I had been discouraged over some upsetting information and I forgot WHO my hope was really in…Jesus Christ.  I was feeling alone and scared of what the future might bring, instead of placing my trust in His hands.

Sure it’s easy to say, “Live like today is your only day,” but do I really practice it?  Uh…as I found out on Tuesday, I do not.

Not so fast!!  What I did find was that in the midst of a dark hour, it is amazing how your attitude can change with a little hope.

An encouraging word from a sister, a hug from a friend or a smooch from your honey won’t make things all better, but they will give this moment (RIGHT NOW) some hope!

As I’ve said before, I haven’t a clue why we get bad news, or why bad things happen or why stormy weather comes and goes throughout our lives.  But, I do know that we ALL have rocky roads we travel and we are never alone on the journey.  Our Heavenly Father will guide us through every situation if we will just allow Him.  God is faithful and shows His love even through our hurts.

Having hope is trusting, expecting, desiring, anticipating, and having faith that God is God and He loves you and me.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”  Deuteronomy 31:6

That’s a mighty big promise and the best part is that it is TRUE!  Thanks, God 😮

Do you place your hope in the everlasting God?

Some Wisdom for Today:  Proverbs 23:18 – Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.