His professors and fellow students recognized him as one of the most brilliant students on campus. He had the most when it came to worldly goods. From any vantage point he seemed to “have it all.”
Early one morning while the campus was wrapped in silence, he jumped to his death from his room in the dorm. As his family went through the items left behind in his room, they discovered a note that read, “There is utterly no hope.”

Hopelessness has many causes and few cures. Many searching for some form of hope turn to alcohol or other drugs. Others lose themselves in their work or worry for a way out of their despair. Many seek relief by trying new experiences or adventures. Few find long-lasting results.

Hopelessness may be caused by sorrow or grief. We all seem to want a life without a “pile of problems.” No one looks for tragedies as a form of entertainment. And we rarely have an opportunity to “pick our pain.” Pain is as much a part of life as sunshine or rain, night or day.

Is there a sure source where everyone can find hope? The Psalmist believes there is. “...hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows.”

Hoping is different from wishing. Wishing is a desire for something we don’t have. Hope, on the other hand, is a gift from God. Hope in God gives us confidence that He is with us and will fulfill every promise He has ever made to protect us and empower us to meet the dangers of life.

Prayer: Lord, as long as we have You we have hope and know that Your unfailing love will guide us and guard us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 130:7 Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.