(By Charles Holt)—

“Let your hopes not your hurts define your future.” Absolutely, it is true. Once read, does anyone wish to obey the exhortation this line provokes? It can provide the strength that’s needed to continue (or begin) a victorious life. Each person reading these words can change their feelings of helplessness and even hopelessness if they will take the Bible seriously. Yes, there can be victory over helplessness and hopelessness.

Here are two very powerful verses of scripture that can help change one’s life. Through the Prophet Haggai the Lord says twice: “Consider your ways” (Haggai 1:5 & 7). God, who is merciful and forgiving, asks the people if they are satisfied with their life—their present experience and the future. He has something better for them if they will listen to Him. It begins, God says, “if we consider our ways.” Take a serious look at what you are doing and where you are intending to go—“Consider your ways!”

Another powerful verse is found in Proverbs 14:12 and 16:25 saying: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” The Message translates 16:25 as follows: “There’s a way that looks harmless enough; look again—it leads straight to hell.” These are sober words and worthy of our closest attention because eternal things are guided by them.

Let me quickly say that I have never felt the sting or the hurt of divorce. I have three children who have experienced this and I have suffered with them. One son has endured the sudden loss of his wife in death; the nature of my work has allowed me to stand with many different people wounded by heavy losses. Some have yet to fully recover. There is hope for everyone as they deal with the “why did this happen” and “what do I do now” questions.

However, don’t let hopelessness and despair define your future. God’s words can be like a light in a dark place. Come into His light. Is He merciful? Yes. Is He compassionate? Yes. Does He understand? Yes. Does He understand your situation? Yes.. Does He know how you feel? Yes. Does He want to guide you into the right way? Yes. Will He help you if you ask for His help? Yes. When will you begin? Today? Now? Let your answer always be a resounding yes!