Rest In Hope

Because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices;
my flesh also will rest in hope 
(Psalm 16:8-9)

“I’m at the end of my rope.” 
“I’ve exhausted all my resources.”
“I don’t know which way to turn.”
“My hands are tied.”
“There’s nothing else I can do.”
“The decision is out of my hands.”
“I feel helpless.”
“I don’t see any way out.”
“I can’t imagine how this can possibly turn out okay.”

Sound familiar?  At one time or another, we have probably all said something of this nature.  In life, there will always be things to deal with -- circumstances beyond our control. Feelings of helplessness often lead to hopelessness which interferes with our ability to think healthy thoughts and experience peaceful emotions. When that happens, all areas of life are tainted, turning even sunny days dismal and gray.

In our own strength it is virtually impossible to break out of the gloom that envelopes us.  But when we look to God and allow Him to take control of the situation, we find that His love and strength can bring a renewed sense of peace even before we see a reason to hope.

Dismal and gray the day had been;
Dismal and gray from the start;
Dismal and gray the thoughts I had had, and
Dismal and gray my heart.
Then slowly one little ray of sun 
Broke through the dismal gray,
Spreading and growing till it filled the sky,
And melted the gloom away.
What a difference the sun brought about!
What a change it made in my mood!
Its brilliance lightened and brightened the day,
And improved my whole attitude.
Hope is the sunshine of the soul,
When all around us is dim;
And hope will be ours if we look to God,
And give all our burdens to Him.

Why are you cast down, o my soul?  And why are you disquieted within me? 
 Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help (salvation)
 of my countenance, and my God 
(Psalm 43:5)

Lord, help me remember that circumstances 
which render me helpless do not, to any degree, limit You.

Glenda Collins Inman

Comments