LIGHT OF HOPE AND HELP (8)

“For THERE IS HOPE for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease” – Job 14: 7

There is a Restoration dimension to the LIGHT of HOPE and HELP: “For THERE IS HOPE for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its tender shoots will not cease” (Job 14: 79). Just as Hope remains for a tree, in Christ our hope is never destroyed. God’s restoration power flows through the earth to revive the tree. The same flows through our hearts to revive our lives. When all seems to be over, God is just beginning (Jh.12:24). The scent of His Word of Hope and Help brings healing, revival, and restoration into our lives.

Amidst life's trials, God’s Word offers succour, guidance, profound insights for finding Strength in Adversity, timeless principles of Hope, renewal, resilience, and an awareness of life's fragility. Exploring these empowers us to navigate life's challenges with Grace and Strength.

Hope and Renewal: “For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again…” (v.7). Life's hardships can leave us feeling despondent, but Hope can spring forth even in the midst of despair. Like a tree that regenerates after being cut down, we can experience renewal and fresh beginnings. Hope fuels our spirits, enabling us to believe in a brighter future despite present predicaments. Practically, we can nurture Hope through: daily, positive affirmations and confessions of God’s Word; being surrounding with uplifting influences, such as cheering friends and inspirational literature; and focusing on our potential for growth and positive change, even in challenging situations.

Resilience: “Though its root may grow old in the earth, and its stump may die in the ground” (v.8). Life’s journey is often marked by difficulties and impediments, symbolized by the imagery of aging roots and a dying stump. However, the essence of resilience lies in our ability to persevere and overcome these obstacles. Just as a tree endures seasons of adversity, we possess the strength to bounce back and emerge stronger, as we cultivate spiritual disciplines and habits that restore energy and promote emotional well-being, seek supportive communities, such as faith-lifting fellowships, embrace trials as opportunities for personal growth, and learn from setbacks.

Life’s Fragility: “Yet at the scent of water it will bud and bring forth branches like a plant” (v.9). Human existence is fragile! The tree's response to the scent of water illustrates the delicate nature of life. We’re encouraged to embrace the present moment, appreciate its fleeting beauty and treasure our experiences, by sustaining an attitude of gratitude, and ensuring that our actions align with our values and priorities.

Holding onto hope, cultivating resilience, and cherishing precious moments along life’s journey, will stir in us the innate capacity to flourish in the face of adversities. Through the Scent and Light of Hope and Help, we can rise above life's trials and find renewed Purpose and Joy.