Hope is defined as a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.
It was the summer of 2011, and I was canvassing books through a university scholarship program. I was counting on those earnings to keep going. But then, one day, the unexpected happened. The shadows of the night started to creep their way behind the last rays of the sun before I managed to put a single nickel in my pocket. My heart felt crushed by the anxiety of a fruitless day.
Before I knew it, I was standing by the side of the road questioning God. All hope was dead inside of me.
I saw one more house as I approached the intersection where I would call for pick up. After such a rough day, the last thing I wanted was any more human interaction. But, after a lengthy debate with God, I decided to go and knock on the door.
When I saw the parents of the house listening attentively to my speech, I felt hopeful again. Then, the dad stood up and left the room unexpectedly. He returned minutes later, saying: “Look, this is what we are going to do; we are going to help you out with this,” as he pulled out a stack of cash from his pocket.
It was even more than the amount I usually made in a day. I couldn’t believe my eyes.
After a night of struggle
The whole thing reminded me of Peter’s experience after his fruitless night at sea- Luke 5. He was probably frustrated, stressed, and hopeless, just like me. However, God allowed Peter to go through that experience so he would witness His power and feel the reassurance of His everlasting presence.
Do you sometimes feel like you are giving your all yet see no results? Today, I want to encourage you to keep pushing forward. Jesus sees your hard work and discipline. He knows about your needs and intentions. He looks after the sparrow; He most definitely looks after you.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. – 1 Peter 5:7
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