Hope for the hopeless
I am lying in bed. The question arises in my mind, “Why get up? Will something happen today that will make tomorrow better? Will today bring any new hope into my life?” I turn over again and close my eyes, but inside, despair and darkness surround me.
Unfortunately, such thoughts are becoming more common among today’s generation. They are struggling with high levels of stress, anxiety, fear, and despair as they navigate their lives and futures. A survey conducted at a Canadian university in 2011 found that more than 50% of students felt hopeless. More than half experienced extreme stress, and more than a third were so depressed that they found it difficult to even perform normal tasks.
Why is all this happening? Why is this generation, who lives a comfortable life, so depressed? One big reason for this is the weakening of their foundation.
Believing that life is good
Some people’s hopes are based on material comforts and wealth. They expect to live a life like their parents did, or even better. But when the economy weakens, jobs are lost, and bills are not paid, that idea of a good life is shattered.
Hope the relationship is good.
For some, relationships are the meaning of life. They live their lives believing that family, friends, and loved ones will support them. But when relationships break down, people ignore them, betray them, or misunderstandings cause a rift in the relationship, then the hope that was built on relationships also breaks down. This is why many students feel so alone.
Belief that the future is good
Some people become optimistic about the future, believing that all problems can be overcome with hard work. But when personal failures, natural disasters, violence, terrorism, and war occur, even this belief is shaken. Day-to-day events in the world weaken the hope that “the future is better.”
All these foundations are unstable.
All of these—the hope based on material comforts, relationships, and personal effort—are unstable. None of these are durable and reliable. Therefore, placing hope in them leads to a life of despair and directionlessness. But there is one foundation that is unbreakable, unchanging, and steadfast. That foundation is God.
God is good, He loves, He knows the future, and He never changes.
Faith in God is a foundation that gives us hope and peace throughout our lives. His goodness and love endure even in the most difficult situations we face. His plan is perfect, and trusting in Him brings security and hope even in an uncertain future.
God’s invitation
John 3:16 says —
“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Jesus says,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Follow me, and I will teach you how to live a life of light and freedom.” (Matthew 11:28-30)
God is calling you into a personal relationship. He has invited you based on His goodness, not your merit. If you are ready, pray this prayer:
Prayer:
God, I know I am far from you. I welcome you into my life. Forgive my sins, show me the way, and be with me in each of my days. Thank you for your love, forgiveness, and gift of eternal life. Amen.
If you pray this prayer, know that God will never abandon you. A relationship with Him is a new beginning.
What to do now?
- Pray daily.
- Start reading the Bible (from the Gospel of John).
- Associate with friends who believe in God.
Hope based on God never fails. This faith will help you face the challenges of today and look to the future with hope. Rise up now — a new hope in life awaits you.
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