HOPE IN GOD

“In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion. Deliver me … incline thine ear unto me, and save me … thou art my rock and my fortress … For thou art my hope, O LORD God.”—Psalm 71:1–5 KJV

The feeling of hopelessness dominates the life of many people as if life’s problems are monumental and cannot be fixed. This spirit changes the way we look at life. Everything seems dark.

To help understand hopelessness, a major university recently conducted a test among 795 men and women. Their goal was to determine whether feelings of hopefulness were a key to health, and “whether those who lack hope are at higher risk of death.”

The test confirmed the relationship between hopelessness and sickness. The death rate among those who said they were not hopeful about the future was three times higher than those who said they had hope.

Do you face a situation that causes you to feel hopeless? The Bible reminds us that we can trust in God to provide the protection and resources we need. We have an eternal hope because of what Jesus did for us.

The Bible encourages us not to give in to hopelessness but to focus on God. Stand on His Word. Call on Him, recognizing that He wants to deliver us and be our rock. He provides us with an anchor and stability. Jesus came to die for us, to give us eternal life.

Don’t allow your heart to be dominated by hopelessness. Turn to God with praise. Commit your needs to Him. Confess the promises in His Word. Trust Him. Place your hope in Him.

Reflection Question: How’s your level of hope today?

TRUSTWORTHY

“Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.”—Ephesians 6:21–22 NKJV

Little is known of Tychicus, but the Bible makes clear that he loved God, served Paul faithfully, and was completely trustworthy.

We first see him with a group of men who waited for Paul at Troas (Acts 20:4–5). Then Paul wrote about him in his letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, Timothy, and Titus. In each situation, we see how Paul gave Tychicus special assignments and seemed to have no doubt that he could be trusted completely.

For example, Paul sent Tychicus to the Ephesians so they would “know my affairs and how I am doing” (v. 1). Paul had spent more than two years in Ephesus. He cared deeply for these people and gave Tychicus the assignment of bringing comfort to their hearts and letting them know about his ministry.

Tychicus provides a model of the faithful servant. While Paul may have received the attention, his ministry would not have been possible without people like Tychicus.

Today, the body of Christ needs people like Tychicus who are willing to serve. Some are called to full-time ministry, but all of us are called to help support the work of the Gospel, to pray, and to contribute our time, talents, and treasures as God directs us.

Seek to be trustworthy and faithful. In every situation, commit to serving the Lord. Trust Him for success. Don’t care who gets the glory or attention. Seek to advance the Kingdom of God.

Reflection Question: How are you serving the body of Christ this week?