Living with Hope

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick: but when the desire comes, it is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12). How does hope lead to desire and what is this tree of life? The tree I picture is one of strength, with luscious fruit, fragrant flowers and beautiful leaves.  I am certain it goes through the four seasons, particularly if it’s a deciduous tree.  In winter it may look weak and lifeless but it is growing steadily beneath the surface, establishing its roots.  In spring as it begins to bloom, all that it endured through winter is appreciated.  In summer, its strength and protection from the elements are enjoyed by many.  Then in autumn, again it displays its beauty, this time with its colours as the sun’s fire and the earth’s soil, displaying its radiance before it once again enters winter.
 
Are you able to picture a tree in your garden and relate it to how we go through seasons in our lives? Unlike trees, our seasons may last for less or more than three months. I have come to realise and appreciate the part hope plays throughout these seasons. Let’s consider Proverbs 13:12 from another angle.
 
Did you know that our heart (not our physical heart) is our intention centre? I believe the soul is what is referred to in Proverbs 13:12 as the heart. Therefore, this hope we possess has a home in our soul. Everything we say and do in life comes out of our purpose. This purpose is found through the hope we possess.  The thing is, there are many of us who are unaware of where our hope comes from, so are unsure of our purpose. We go about life seeking purpose with no hope.
 
Let me introduce you to hope’s best friends, faith and love.  You see, hope without faith is wishful thinking.  We are often wishing for things, yet we don’t have the drive to go after these desires. Hope needs faith to action its desires.  Faith is something we all have, often to varying degrees. Faith is like a muscle; it needs to be worked for maximum efficiency.  Love is often like the silent partner, but much needed.  Love takes faith to another level, especially when we realise we are loved.  Love causes us to anticipate and be expectant of good things.  Love overrides any fears, giving us courage and propelling us to move passionately towards that which we hope for.
 
Just as hope makes way for purpose/desires, faith makes way for possibilities and love makes way for our passions to develop.  Take a moment to intentionally think about your purpose. Are you wishing you would find it, or are you expectantly looking at possibilities for living life to the fullest because you have hope, faith and love cheering you on?
 
If you’re hoping for a good day, week, year and life, ensure you take faith and love with you everywhere you go.  If you need assistance finding hope, faith and love, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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