“Look among the nations and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” –Habakkuk 1:5
We live in a world bound by time. As humans we desire control, but do not have it over time. We can easily get pulled into the frenzy of productivity culture but find ourselves burned out, as evidenced by statistics reporting burnout rates on par with those reported during the pandemic in 2020. Reflecting attempts to preserve youth, the anti-aging industry is projected to reach around 22 billion dollars by 2027. To be so confined by time can feel deeply hopeless at times.
So how do we find grounded hope in a world that feels out of control? One psychology article recommends that redirected thinking and realistic expectation help avoid disappointment. While that advice may feel circular if reality remains hopeless, the Bible similarly calls us to have realistic expectations, but does so with abounding promises of truth and hope.
The Bible reminds us of the reality that God, though invisible, is so evidently present. He doesn’t leave us disenchanted in a broken world, but with evidence of His work. Scripture says, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” We are reminded in Habakkuk 1:5 to take the time to look and wonder! God’s Word calls us (over 250 times) to remember the hope of Scripture and daily evidence that redemption is promised! Though we may not feel in control, we can find rest in the greater reality that a God who loves us and reveals Himself to us in Scripture is. Christians can redirect their thinking and expectations, holding fast to the promised reality that God promises, one of a beautiful future and current restoration.
Lord, teach us to notice and find rest in wonder of the hope that You daily provide. May we rest deeply in trust, grasping the true reality of Your story of redemption.
Passage for Further Reading:
Jeremiah 31:31-34
About the Author:
Eowyn Oh is a student at Vanderbilt University.
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