Survivors of the Auschwitz Holocaust say the only thing that pulled them through horrific years of torture and captivity in the German concentration camps was to hold on to hope. Our Christian hope is linked to the presence of Jesus Christ. The more aware we are of the presence of Jesus Christ, the more hopeful we will feel. We must not hesitate to ask for Jesus’ help, especially when we feel distant. We can pray simple prayers such as, “Jesus make me aware of you.” Ever dragged through a day feeling alone? Ever limped along on a project, feeling unproductive and empty? Jesus is waiting for you and me to ask for His help. He says in James 4:2, “You do not have because you do not ask.” We ask Him for help with expectation; we expect the answer to come. We are confident God is working. Because of who God is, we can live realistically hoping in a God who always fulfills His promises and loves it when we pray His word.
“Why are you in despair, o my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.” —Psalm 42:5
Rick Warren watched one of his children struggle with mental illness for 27 years. When his son took his life, he said “What gives me the most hope every day is God’s grace; knowing that his grace is going to give me the strength for whatever I face, knowing that nothing is a surprise to God.”
Heavenly Father, Thank you for hearing my cries. Thank you for your presence and your grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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