Praying for Hope

One of the most tangible ways we can love our friends well is by encouraging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to hope.

We never want our friends to feel tossed about by their circumstances but to instead remain anchored by biblical hope. We can pray Romans 15:13 comes to life in their everyday moments as well as the weighty realities they may be experiencing right at this moment. Let us be the ones who encourage them to use words that speak life and reflect the faith they have in God, even when they can’t see what’s ahead or make sense of what’s happening.

Our choice to hope in God communicates great trust in God. In a world that often feels overwhelming, it’s important that those of us who know Jesus continue to be light to those around us, and hope is a great vessel for reflecting the faith we have in a God we can’t see. We can spur one another on in a life that engages with the Gospel every day by intentionally choosing a hope-filled perspective and response to the world around us. When we remember who God is and what He has already done for us, we build our trust in what He will do for all of our tomorrows.

Take some time today to pray for a specific friend (or friends!) who might be wavering in their hope and remind them that as they continue to choose to trust God, a lifestyle of hope will follow.

TRY THIS PRAYER:

God, You are the God of all bright and brilliant hope. It is because of You that we have such high hopes for today and the ability to trust You with all our tomorrows. We ask that You generously give ___________________ (insert friend’s name) so much hope that it doesn’t make sense to the world around them. Use their great hope in You to spark conversations with others about who You are and Your heart for the world.

Thank You for being a God we can trust, who is kind in Your sovereignty and quick in your compassion. Encourage our friends with evidence that You are indeed working all things together for their good. Fill them with great joy and peace as they continue to trust You, overflowing with hope in every area of their lives. Keep their hopes high and alive until they see You complete the good work You have begun. Let us never forget what a joy it is to fan the flame of hope in those around us. Thank You for the many benefits of holy friendship, and the great testimony of hope we get to see unfold in the lives of our friends.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP:

Encourage a friend (or several!) by saving the graphic with the verse below and sending it as a text to whomever God brings to mind, letting them know you’re praying for them today.