“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?” – Romans 8:24

Recently, I came across this passage, and it deeply resonated with me. It suggests that true hope lies in aspiring for things beyond our current sight—much like praying for aspirations to manifest. When hope materializes, it transforms into reality, no longer confined to the realm of hope.

Reflecting on this, I find myself drawn to the phrase, “I am hoping for,” over “I am praying for.” There’s a vitality in “hoping for” that ignites within me a positive energy and a belief in forthcoming change. Uttering these words instills in me a sense of confidence, reassuring me that my goals and dreams are within reach. It serves as a beacon, urging me to persist even when faced with setbacks. Thus, I’ve made a conscious shift from saying, “I am praying for,” to “I am hoping for.”

What am I hoping for? The list is extensive! I hope for my children’s professional success, their return to their faith’s foundation, accountability for their actions, unions with individuals of devout character, and a commitment to serving the less fortunate. I hope to emerge as an inspirational speaker, empowering women to break free from abuse. I hope to my book, “A Path to Hope,” will impact others and to become a domestic violence advocate, dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and supporting survivors. I hope to attain financial stability and find a life partner—a God-fearing, encouraging soul who cherishes me.

Hope comes from God, as stated in Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This passage adorns the dedication page of my book. Hope is a divine gift bestowed upon us by God, our ultimate source of hope. Yet, recognizing that attaining hope can be challenging, God has appointed Jesus as our precursor (Hebrews 6:20), ensuring that our aspirations materialize.

What about you? What are you hoping for? Do you seek mediation? In the midst of adversity—whether breaking free from abuse or confronting life’s trials—we must seek the mediator designated by God to find hope. This hope sustains us, providing a focal point as we navigate transformative journeys.

Patience is essential in nurturing hope. “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently” (Romans 8:25). Patience, however, proves challenging. Personally, impatience—a trait rooted in my desire for control—often stalls my progress.

I await the realization of my aspiration to empower abused women—a journey fraught with delays. Progress in selling my book, maintaining my blog (the absence of feedback proving discouraging), securing mentorship and resources for advocacy efforts, occurs at a sluggish pace. Yet, God foresaw these setbacks, providing provisions to navigate through.

During doubts and faltering confidence, the Holy Spirit intervenes (Romans 8:26), interceding on our behalf. However, this intercession aligns with God’s will (Romans 8:27), requiring adherence to His word. Consequently, our hopes must align with God’s pure, selfless hope—not the self-serving desires of man.

Scripture overflows with promises, such as Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Embrace the certainty that God’s interventions yield favorable outcomes. Every hardship shapes you, fortifying your resilience and revealing your inner strength.

Faith sustains hope. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Faith validates hope, affirming the reality of our aspirations. A mustard-seed-sized faith—a concept echoed in Matthew 17:20—is enough for miracles.

Hope is an anchor for the soul, ensuring stability amidst life’s storms (Hebrews 6:19). Embrace hope as your steadfast tether, preserving your resolve and fostering belief in forthcoming change.

Today, I implore you to heed God’s directives, safeguarding hope amidst adversity. Even amidst challenges, cling to hope—a beacon illuminating the path to transformation.

• Revised blog.