HOPE
Hope during the travail season.
Introduction
Welcome to Session Four on hope, specifically focusing on waiting during the travailing season, part two. This workbook is designed to guide you through a 30-minute session of scripture readings, reflections, and action points to help deepen your understanding and experience of Christian hope.
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, we invite Your presence into this time of study and reflection. Open our hearts and minds to Your truth. Help us understand the true essence of hope and how it can transform our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Scripture Readings
Psalm 33:20-22
"Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, just as we hope in You."
Genesis 6:5
"The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually."
Ezekiel 36:26
"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh."
Proverbs 4:23
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Hebrews 3:12
"Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God."
Ephesians 3:17
"That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love."
Reflection Questions
Understanding Hope:
Reflect on the statement: "Hope is not just an expectation, feeling, or thought. It is an invisible, eternal substance and a manifestation of God's power and nature."
How does this understanding of hope challenge or affirm your current view of hope?
The Role of the Heart:
Considering Psalm 33:20-22, what does it mean for your heart to rejoice in the Lord and trust in His holy name?
How does the idea of the heart being deceitful (Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9) impact your ability to trust it in matters of faith?
Transformation of the Heart:
Reflect on Ezekiel 36:26. What does it mean for God to give you a new heart and a new spirit?
How does the concept of God taking away a heart of stone and giving a heart of flesh apply to your life?
Guarding Your Heart:
Proverbs 4:23 emphasizes guarding your heart. What practical steps can you take to guard your heart in your daily life?
How can you ensure that your heart remains a source of joy and trust in God despite its potential for deceitfulness?
Action Points
Daily Heart Check:
Spend 5-10 minutes each day this week in prayer, asking God to reveal the true state of your heart. Write down any insights or convictions you receive.
Scripture Meditation:
Choose one of the scriptures from the readings and meditate on it each day. Write down what stands out to you and how it speaks to your current situation.
Heart-Healthy Practices:
Identify one practical way you can guard your heart this week. This could be avoiding negative influences, engaging in positive relationships, or practicing gratitude.
Journal Your Journey:
Keep a journal of your reflections and prayers. Note any changes in your understanding of hope and the condition of your heart.
Closing Reflection
As we navigate through the travailing season, remember that hope is an eternal substance that God offers us. It works through faith, love, and truth. While our hearts have the potential for both good and evil, God promises to transform them. Trust in Him and guard your heart diligently.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of hope. Help us to trust You with our hearts, knowing that You are at work within us. Transform our hearts to be more like Yours, and let our hope in You be steadfast. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Use this workbook throughout the week to deepen your faith and understanding of hope. May you experience the fullness of God's promises as you journey through this season.