How Do We Stay Hopeful When the World Feels Lost?

So, the world feels especially precarious right now. For those of us who believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, what should our response be? Let's turn to Scripture. Regarding Israel, the Bible foretold these events. Ezekiel 38:15-16 says:

"You will come from your place in the far north, you and many nations with you, all of them riding on horses, a great horde, a mighty army. You will advance against my people, Israel, like a cloud that covers the land. In days to come, Gog, I will bring you against my land so that the nations may know me when I am proved holy through you before their eyes."

Some scholars have interpreted this prophecy about the coming Armageddon to suggest that the Church will be raptured before these events unfold. While opinions differ, the prophecy reminds us that such events are part of a divine plan. The good news lies in the conclusion of the prophecy. Ezekiel 38:21-23 continues:

“I will summon a sword against Gog on all my mountains, declares the Sovereign Lord. Every man’s sword will be against his brother. I will execute judgment on him with plague and bloodshed; I will pour down torrents of rain, hailstones, and burning sulfur on him and on his troops and on the many nations with him. And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord.”

Ultimately, God's plan is perfect, and He will make himself known and redeem His people. 

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But to the broader unrest, even conflict, that we’re seeing globally, let’s first turn to Jesus for some guidance on how to respond. Luke 21:25-28 says: 

“There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 

We are called to lift up our heads, look to the horizon with anticipation for Jesus' return, and recognize that our redemption is near. I’m reminded of the incredible worship song, “Hope on the Horizon” by Sam Bailey. 

When your heart
Is ready to break
You’ve got empty hands
And worn-out faith
When it feels like prayers
Have gone to waste
And the promise seems
So far away

Chorus
Lift up your eyes
There’s hope on the horizon
Oh look to Christ
His Kingdom is arriving
The King will return to claim His throne and make all things right!

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Mimai Mig

In these trying times, we must remain diligent in turning to prayer. When my wife and I heard about the attack on Tehran, we immediately began to pray. We are passionate about praying for peace in the Middle East, especially for Israel and the Jewish people.

In a recent article titled "A Call to Pray for America," written after the assassination attempt, I shared some famous prayers from past leaders of our nation. My favorite, which is worth repeating here, was from George Washington.

"Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large."

How Do We Pray for Our Chaotic World?

Recognize that terror and destruction are the works of the enemy, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10a). In the face of what seems like a tsunami of negativity, it is crucial to remember our identity as children of God and followers of Jesus and to pray with the authority that comes with that inheritance. Despite the overwhelming darkness, we represent the light and are called to embody the promise found in the second half of that verse: 

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” - John 10:10b

This means that in the midst of chaos, we have the opportunity to reflect Christ's light and hope. We are not just passive observers of the world's turmoil; through intercessory prayer, we are active participants in God's redemptive plan. By living out the fullness of life that Jesus offers, we demonstrate the transformative power of His love and grace. Our actions and attitudes can be a beacon of hope, reminding others that in Christ, there is always the promise of abundant life.

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Josh Baldwin, in a recent episode of The Walk podcast, shares a powerful devotional about fighting for peace that applies well to the state of the world. Baldwin, a gold-certified singer-songwriter and worship leader, recounts a turbulent period in his family's life when his wife suffered from severe anxiety and panic attacks.

“Those who trust Christ as their savior are given by God an assurance that flows out of this new relationship with him. And once we are in Christ, the Prince of Peace shows us that he can bring peace wherever he rules.”

During this challenging time, Baldwin felt compelled to write a song about peace, inspired by John 14:27: 

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid." 

This songwriting session turned into a heartfelt prayer for peace, reflecting Baldwin's personal struggles and his reliance on God's promise of peace.

Photo Credit: ©Pixabay/Engin_Akyurt 

Finally, John 16:33 reminds us of Jesus' profound promise:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

This verse encapsulates the dual reality of the Christian journey: the presence of trouble in the world and the transcendent peace found in Christ. Jesus acknowledges the inevitability of difficulties, challenges, and suffering that we will face in our earthly lives. Yet, He offers a powerful assurance that goes beyond our immediate circumstances.

Jesus' victory over the world is not merely a future hope but a present reality that believers can experience daily. By overcoming sin, death, and all forces of darkness through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides a foundation of peace that is unshakeable. This peace is rooted in the knowledge that our ultimate destiny is secure in Him, regardless of the trials we encounter.

Let us, therefore, find peace in Him, embracing His promise with unwavering faith. 

"Made for More" with Josh Baldwin from Worship Leader on GodTube.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Arthit_Longwilai