The Undertow of Hopelessness

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.  It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf.  He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.  Hebrews 6:19-20

Hopelessness is defined as having no expectation of good or hope for success, nor any anticipation of a solution to life’s problem.  We enter into seasons of hopelessness for various reasons.  Sometimes consequences from our actions will cause us to feel the undertow of hopelessness.  At other times, it is through no action of our own doing that we plunge into the undertow of hopelessness.  What do we do when we are faced with a sense of hopelessness?  We must acknowledge our feelings and seek our Savior and LORD.  Jesus Christ is the only one who will truly be able to give us a sense of comfort and hope when we are experiencing this undertow of hopelessness.  God’s Word tells us in Titus 2:13 that Jesus Christ is our blessed hope – while we wait for the blessed hope – the appearing of the glory of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ…

When we are facing the undertow of hopelessness, we have many questions that often go unanswered.  We don’t know what to do or where to turn.  God desires for us to turn to him, to seek Him.  He is waiting to provide us with everlasting hope and comfort.  Matthew 6:33 – But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  God’s love for us is everlasting and unfailing.  When we feel the first tug of the undertow of hopeless, we need to turn to Him for His righteous support.  When I said, “My foot is slipping,” your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.  When anxiety was great within me, your consolations brought me joy – Psalm 94:18-19.  

Looking back at God’s faithfulness will help us in our season of hopelessness.  Looking back over our lives at God’s faithfulness toward us provides a profound testimony of God’s love for us and gives us a glimpse of hopefulness.  Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him” – Lamentations 3:22-24. 

As we study Scripture, we see many who experienced the undertow of hopelessness.  In the Book of Ruth, we read about Naomi who has lost her husband and her sons.  We read of Naomi and Ruth’s return to the land of Judah and God’s faithfulness, even as they experienced difficulties.  We read in Luke 8 about a woman who had been ill for twelve years.  As Jesus was walking with a large crowd gathered around Him, this woman believed if she could just touch the hem of His garment she would find the hope of healing.  Because of her faith in Jesus, she was healed.  I encourage you today to turn to Jesus.  He is our hope.  We can find rest in our Savior and LORD.  Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.  Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken – Psalm 62:5-6.

Cry out to God today.  He hears you when you are in the undertow of hopelessness.  He is close to you and will walk you through this season of hopelessness.  The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their trouble.  The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.  The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all – Psalm 34:17-19.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit – Romans 15:22. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for your presence in each and every moment of our lives.  LORD, as we experience seasons of hopelessness, help us to turn to you.  Fill our inner spirit and soul with hope and comfort that only You can give.  Thank You for being our salvation, rock, and strength.  I pray that we will remember to take refuge in You and You only.  In Jesus Precious Name I Pray…..Amen.