Hope – Page 11 – The Will to Wake Up

Speaking from the Soul

What does your soul want to say to God today?

As we approach Lent next week, I was reading Psalm 103 with the other staff members at my church, particularly focusing on what our souls might be saying to God in this season. Through that process emerged a poem, which I hope inspires you today.

To God at Lent

By Hannah Chung

You created the world so beautiful

Rushing waters and still sunsets

Dancing leaves, so colorful.

In the wind, through the trees,

In a hug, a hold, a smile,

You remember the least of these.

My soul is eager to obey

Your simple call

That whispers its way

Into my heart.

My soul knows what my mind does not

It remembers all the times

You’ve been there for me when I could not

Hold on without You.

But bodies break

While minds ache.

Tragedy falls

While emptiness calls.

Haunting darkness floods

Our veins

Tempting us to forget

Your faithful ways.

Your voice is gentle

Your voice is firm

Your voice is patient

More than we deserve.

Your voice soothes my soul

When I need the strength of eagles.

Help my soul’s memory

Flow through my body.

Allow the trust my soul desires

To transform me.

While You left in physical form

Your promise to never leave us

Is what keeps me warm.

When the cold and the frightened cramp me in,

Still Your love will break me free from within.

My soul, it knows You

More than I ever can

Here on earth.

And I thank You for the peace

That comes from the mystery

Of the life blossoming

In this redeemed soul.

Today, ask yourself what your soul might be saying to God. Perhaps it’s a praise for the ways He has shown you faithfulness this year. Maybe you are seeking answers or peace after a storm shook your world. Whatever it is, God wants to hear from you. So reach out to Him today and let His peace fill you. ❤

Praise the Lord, my soul;
    all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
²Praise the Lord, my soul,
    and forget not all his benefits—
³who forgives all your sins
    and heals all your diseases,
⁴who redeems your life from the pit
    and crowns you with love and compassion,
⁵who satisfies your desires with good things
    so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Psalm 103:1-5

It Won’t Be Like This Forever

Encouragement to step outside of life’s current demands.

Today’s been one of those reflective sort of days. I was cleaning out an old drawer and found a plethora of old cards, drawings, and remnants from the past, including an SD card from my very first camera.

Scrolling through the blurry pictures, I had to laugh. I couldn’t even imagine what Little Hannah would think of the photos I take now. Not an incomprehensible blur of color? Woah!

Whether life is going well, going horribly, or feeling pretty mundane, it’s easy to get bogged down by life’s current demands. It may feel like you’ll never have the answer, relationship, opportunity or growth you desire.

But I promise, for better or for worse, this isn’t how life will be forever.

So how can we make the most of the season we’re in? Here are a few tips based on the kind of season you are in:

Joyful/Exciting

I’m so glad that this season is going well for you. Perhaps you are experiencing new life, fresh perspective, or the opportunity you’ve always imagined. Take a moment to slow down and celebrate this time. Journal about it, capture the memories, and save them for a time when life may not feel as grand. This will give you hope for the future.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
Philippians 4:4-5

Difficult

I’m so sorry that you are experiencing a form of pain or discomfort. You may be struggling to get up each morning, wondering the purpose of this trial. While you may not have the energy or motivation you used to, this time will not last forever. God loves you so much, and as you trust Him with all aspects of your life, you will begin to feel your strength again.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Boring/Waiting

Stuck in a rut? Did you know that some of the most creative and innovative projects have come out of a person’s boredom? If you have extra time on your hands, don’t waste it! Spend time with others, invest in those who may not be having the easiest time right now, and prepare yourself for the busier road ahead. God will use the waiting as long as you are willing to follow His lead.

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.
Psalm 27:14

Restful

Ah, the restful season. Take a deep breath, pour yourself into your passions, and thank God for this gift. Don’t fret over the next activity to partake in–rather, enjoy this season of slowness and refresh yourself with this opportunity. Take time to grow in your faith and make intentional effort to establish healthy habits now so that they will be there for you when harder times come.

Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
Genesis 2:3

Unsure

Perhaps you are unsure what kind of season you are experiencing. You may be in between stages of life and that can be overwhelming. But don’t worry–God has an incredible plan for you.

Cherish the moments of joy, glimpses of hope, and the presence of faithfulness in this time as you rely on God and His promises for you.

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.
1 John 4:16

Moving Forward While Honoring the Past

Is it difficult to find the balance between appreciating the past while moving forward?

Yesterday, I glanced out the window and noticed my next-door neighbors’ old playhouse. There it stood, stained with permanent purple handprints, the swings barely clinging onto the post, and cobwebs filling the room that used to serve as the kitchen.

This playhouse provided a place for adventure, friendship, and community. Alas, its time has come to an end. But does that make it an unworthy investment?

We are so often focused on the future that we work ourselves up over whether or not we wasted time in the past. Why didn’t we do more extracurriculars rather than hang out with friends? Why didn’t we work more hours rather than explore new hobbies? Why did we make that purchase that didn’t last forever?

Even worse, we begin to fret about regret. But what may be unusable or unappreciated now can still have value in reflection. And that includes relationships.

Do you ever beat yourself up over spending time with someone who you don’t talk to anymore? Maybe this person won’t ever have the same significance they once had in your life, but they were there to teach you something valuable.

Instead of looking back at the past with doubts and alarm, perhaps today you can reframe your perspective and appreciate all that your growth has taught you. All these people and experiences and even possessions have brought you to the place you are today. But none of it has any value without God.

Thanks to God, we don’t have to have regrets. We know that even when we mess up or make a questionable choice, God will use it to bring us closer to Him. We just have to keep our hearts open to the possibility that it isn’t too late for us.

If you are caught in confusion, overwhelmed by mistakes or lack of closure, call out. to God for insight. Peace is one of the many gifts He willingly gives us.

You are not a failure when your thoughts linger on a place that’s no longer here or a person who doesn’t occupy your time anymore. But the past is not a place to live; rather, it’s a place to reflect in before moving forward with renewed courage and hope.

You have made it through all the storms that have come your way so far. You will be able to do it again. ❤

My son, if you accept my words
    and store up my commands within you,
²turning your ear to wisdom
    and applying your heart to understanding—
³indeed, if you call out for insight
    and cry aloud for understanding,
⁴and if you look for it as for silver
    and search for it as for hidden treasure,
⁵then you will understand the fear of the Lord
    and find the knowledge of God.
⁶For the Lord gives wisdom;
    from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:1-6

Friendship Matters

Reflecting on the gift of connection.

Have you ever tried to do something alone that you’ve always done with a friend?

For me, that’s currently exercising. The healthiest I’ve ever been was when I would walk and play tennis with one of my closest friends who used to live down the street. It was more than just getting some fresh air–we would laugh and the time would fly by.

But years later, it’s so much harder to find the motivation to do what used to feel simple. We would walk for miles before forcing ourselves to get other things done. Alone, it’s hard to go even half that distance without getting bored.

Most things in life are more fun with a friend, especially one who inspires, encourages, and pushes you to be the best version of yourself.

Sometimes, as Christians, we get so focused on having a relationship with God that we forget part of that involves community with others. Jesus didn’t do His ministry alone–He chose to have disciples alongside Him. There are so many incredible stories of friendship, loyalty, and endurance in the Bible, such as:

Jonathan and David (1 Samuel 20)

Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1)

Elisha and Elijah (2 Kings 2)

Mary, Martha, and Jesus (Luke 10; John 11)

Paul and Silas (Acts 16)

And so many others!

When we have been let down or excluded by other believers, it’s easy to give up on reaching out for connection. But it’s still vital to our personal and spiritual growth. We were made for community–from the very beginning, God recognized that Adam was not good alone; he needed a friend (Genesis 2:18).

Even though it may be scary or humbling to seek friendship, I encourage you to take a step towards building a connection this week. Chances are, you aren’t the only one longing for a kind and encouraging companion.

It’s incredible all that God can do when we work together. Just think, you can be part of that amazing purpose too ❤

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Matthew 18:19-20

Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family,
and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you—
better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.
Proverbs 27:10

Two are better than one,
    because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down,
    one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
    and has no one to help them up.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Life Doesn’t Have to Make Sense

Do you struggle to trust God when life doesn’t go as planned?

There have been many moments in my life where I’ve watched a situation unfold, a relationship end, or my path take an unexpected turn that’s caused me to wonder, “Where is God in all this?”

The thing that’s been difficult for me to accept is that God is right there in the middle of all that doesn’t make sense. God desires to be known, but we will never fully be able to comprehend Him with the limited capacity we have as humans. And maybe that can bring us hope instead of fear.

Accepting that life is confusing and chaotic and even incredibly painful at times doesn’t mean we have to hide our emotions or deny the way these difficulties affect us. But it does mean we won’t lose our faith and trust in God even when the journey holds things we don’t understand or desire.

Today, I encourage you to be reminded that God is the God of the impossible. That means you won’t have everything figured out and that’s perfectly fine. Good, even.

God has extraordinary plans for you that may be hard to see right now, but it doesn’t make them any less possible. So whether you are holding up a troubling situation or an unknown future, hand your burdens to God because He cares for you.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

⁸Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. ⁹Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

¹⁰And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.
1 Peter 5:7-10

Why the Rush?

Understanding the root behind our burnout.

There are many reasons why we find ourselves stuck in a busy rhythm with little time to be still.

Perhaps we have trouble setting boundaries, our job requires much from us, or we get bored easily. But at the root of these various reasons is fear.

Fear tells us that people won’t like us if we say no.

Fear tells us that we have to be the one to save the day.

Fear tells us that we are defined by what we do, not who we are.

Fear tells us that we will collapse if we take a break.

Fear tells us that slowing down means giving up.

Fear tells us that God won’t be there when we finally make the time to be still in His presence.

Fear tells us not to trust God with all areas of our lives, including our temptations, our distractions, our inadequacies, and our demands.

But who is fear to tell us anything?

Fear never stepped out in faith.

Fear never encouraged the outcast or belittled.

Fear never took a risk that could’ve cost everything.

Fear never filled us with peace amid a sea of uncertainty.

Fear has never gone through what you have gone through and still stands here today, undefeated.

So why do we trust a silly thing called fear when we have an almighty, loving God right beside us?

Today, may your act of courage be taking a moment to be still. Set aside all distractions and open your heart to God. Even if it’s a five minute walk, listening to nature rather than artificial sounds. Even if it’s participating in a simple breath prayer. Even if it seems so small and insignificant, it will make a huge difference on your wellbeing.

God is the God of rest. So be still in His presence today and be filled with His everlasting peace.

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
Psalm 46:10

Resting with God

Transforming your time with God through breath prayers.

I’ve recently been introduced to the concept of breath prayers. For those of you unfamiliar with this form of prayer, here is a definition of its purpose from Jennifer Tucker’s book, Breath as Prayer:

Breath prayers combine deep breathing exercises with prayers of meditation on God’s Word to help calm your body while focusing your mind on truth.

When prayed regularly, these prayers can transform how you respond to anxiety and can help you experience a deep and abiding peace.

One of the greatest gifts God gives us is rest. It is just as valuable as all the other spiritual disciplines, especially when we rest in God’s grace and peace.

I’ve often struggled with focusing while reading the Bible. When I read it to complete a plan or just to squeeze in some time with God during a busy season of life, I end up leaving the quiet time without feeling stirred or drawn closer to God.

Given the significance of the Bible in our relationship with and understanding of God, it’s important to be prepared going into our time in the Word. But how can we do that without making quiet time feel like a chore?

For me, breath prayers have helped so much. Before opening the Bible, settling my soul through focusing on a simple phrase or verse allows me to rest in God’s promises.

Then, after receiving a moment of peace, I am able to focus and appreciate what I’m reading. Deep breathing practices allow for more oxygen to go to the brain, so your body may also thank you for this gift!

If you have never done breath prayers before (or if you would like to resume them), try one with me:

As you inhale through your nose, pretend you’re smelling roses and allow your belly to expand. Closing your eyes may help as well.

When you exhale, pretend you’re blowing out birthday candles by pursing your lips in an “O” shape. Make sure your exhale is longer than your inhale.

Given that you are breathing, you will repeat this prayer internally rather than saying it aloud.

Inhale:

I wait for you, Lord.

Exhale:

My hope is in your Word.

It can help to repeat this process a few times, about 5-10 times or more if you’d like.

Going forward, I hope you can allow God’s gift of rest to fill your heart and release you from the burdens and anxieties plaguing your mind. You are so loved. ❤

Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. ²For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. ¹³Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Hebrews 4:1-2; 12-13

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I hope.
Psalm 130:5

To Be Alive

A reflection on truly living in 2023.

Have you ever stopped in your tracks and wondered, “I’m breathing, but am I truly living right now?”

In a culture swept up in the “latest things” and keeping up with everybody else, it’s easy to be caught in this whirlwind of panic and restlessness. But when we don’t pause to enjoy life where we’re at–a stage that is precious and unique all on its own, despite the difficulties–we will never fully experience the gift of life itself.

As we head into 2023, I’m left with more questions than answers. Perhaps pondering these questions with me will lead you on a path towards healing, intentional living, and hope for the future.

How are you experiencing peace (or a lack of peace) in this present season?
What changes could you make to feel less drained?
What activities or experiences leave you feeling fulfilled and joyful?
Are you currently making the time to do those things on a regular basis?
How is God calling you to act in this season?

In reference to the final question, I don’t just mean the basic: God wants me to follow His laws and live righteously. Rather, what specific things can you do this year to be faithful to God and pursue His calling on your life?

No matter what gets accomplished and where you are on the journey, you are loved and you are here for an important reason. I hope this new year fills you with hope, healing, and anticipation for greater things to come.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
2 Corinthians 5:17

Witnessing God’s Faithfulness in 2022

How has God shown up in your life in 2022?

It’s hard to believe that in a matter of days, it will be a whole new year!

My word of the year for 2022 was faithfulness.

To be honest, I frequently forgot it was my word until I heard someone use it or a particular moment stuck out to me as evidence of “faithfulness”. But reflecting on this past year, I can truly see how God used faithfulness as a reminder of His steadfast love during a trying year.

2022 was a year with unique challenges. After making a difficult decision that changed many of my plans going forward, I struggled with handling my emotions in a healthy way. Instead of working through them, I bottled them up inside until they left me feeling empty and hopeless.

But God used this experience to help me learn to trust others, have the courage to receive godly counsel, and respect myself enough to set healthy boundaries. Most of all, God showed me that emotions, even negative ones, don’t have to be a weakness. God can use them to reveal Himself to us.

I went through several seasons in 2022 wondering when I’d finally hear from God again. But every time I remembered to ask God for an opportunity to witness His presence in my life, He showed up. Perhaps not in tangible ways or how I would’ve expected, but always giving me a sense of hope, a glimpse of His grace, or a sign that He’s still with me.

Through it all, God remains faithful.

As I have grown (and will hopefully continue growing) in understanding God’s faithfulness, God has given me opportunities to encourage others through faithfulness, whether it meant sticking with a difficult job, reaching out to friends going through hard times, or simply making time to be with Him each day.

You may have your own list of ways you’ve endured through 2022. Perhaps these actions seem small, but they hold eternal value.

Did you have a word for 2022? Reflect on this past year and how you’ve seen God work through the hardships and the joys.

God will strengthen your character through every season, drawing you closer to Him. No matter what, He never gives up on us. I hope that the rest of 2022 brings you peace, hope, and excitement for all that lies ahead.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:9-12

A Christmas Reflection

Merry Christmas!

This Christmas, whether you are…

Receiving the rewards of patient waiting, like Zechariah and Elizabeth.

Facing financial difficulty or societal rejection, like the shepherds.

Eager to share your gifts with the world, like the magi.

Unsure what the future will hold after your plans change, like Mary.

Trying to be supportive and encouraging, even at great costs to your reputation or personal ambitions, like Joseph.

Feeling overwhelmed by expectations or commitments to the point where you can’t give any more, like the inn keepers.

Or expressing your joy as you live into the purposes and promises of God, like the angels.

I hope that you feel part of the Christmas story this year. God didn’t have to create us or give us important work to do, yet He chooses us because of His love for us. Let us rejoice in these promises today, and every day. No matter what today looks like for you, you are loved, seen, and treasured. Merry Christmas ❤

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Luke 2:15-20

Christmas Challenge

Read through Luke 1-2 and write down three things about the Christmas story that resonate with you this year. Did you notice anything different? How can this story, whether familiar or not, bring you peace and hope this Christmas?