Hopeless or Hopeful

Every fall, plants like ragweed irritate my son’s sinuses. One night, his symptoms became so severe I thought he should see a doctor. Our family had just recovered from months of serious health issues, and I was so discouraged I didn’t even want to pray. My husband, however, found hope in all that God had already helped us through. He prayed for direction. Shortly after, with the help of medicine, our son’s condition improved.

Though some of his companions were discouraged, Caleb also showed hope and optimism after scouting out Canaan. God had promised the area to Israel, and Caleb said, “We should . . . take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it” (Numbers 13:30). The others felt it was impossible, that the Canaanites were too powerful and their cities too well fortified (vv. 28, 31–33).

Caleb wasn’t denying the challenges the Israelites faced; his faith rested on God’s past faithfulness to His people in their struggles. God’s people did eventually conquer Canaan, and Caleb received his share because he had followed Him “wholeheartedly” (Joshua 14:9).

Many situations feel hopeless, but for those who know God and believe in His faithfulness, there’s always a reason for hope. When discouragement and despair seep in, we can find rest by trusting His power and grace to carry us through.