October 4: Moving Forward in Hope
- Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”
- Reflection: Transition is often associated with loss, but it also heralds hope. It is wise to name the ways that change may also bring grief with it. It is okay to state for yourself the things that will fall away, or be missing from your life, or create discomfort as transition takes place.
Yet on the other side of change comes opportunity for growth. We are called, as children of God, to trust that God provides what is necessary for our wellbeing, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Then we strive to manage change from a perspective of hope — grounded in reality, willing to adapt, and resilient enough to take steps that lead toward a sustainable objective. Humans are designed to cope and thrive in the midst of change, and experience it as a chance for renewal.
We can also breathe and wait for circumstances to become more clear with time. With some distance, looking at the big picture view of situations, we may perceive a pattern that has God’s fingerprints on it, revealing a broader plan and purpose for our lives. - Spiritual Practice: Write a letter of hope to yourself.
Song:
- “Rise Up” by Andra Day: https://youtu.be/lwgr_IMeEgA?si=7_j33M-EyzTGT7W
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” — Desmond Tutu
Oct 4 Daily Devotional