Hope /hop/ — Noun: A deep and abiding positive orientation; a firm and flexible trust, resting squarely on faith (the substance of things hoped for).
The ability to hold on to hope – to have resiliency of hope in light of changing circumstance – is a mark of spiritual maturity and strength. For this reason, we say "hope is an active, conscious choice."
Hope is the ultimate assessment area in the Spiritual-Holistic Inquiry Process methodology for this reason: as all the other assessment areas come under control, resilient hope can shine through [read more].
There is a difference between resilient hope – the ability to trust in God – and toxic hope – the clinging to one particular expected or desired outcome. One way to tell between the two: toxic hope says "my will be done," while resilient hope says, "Thy will be done." We see how hope is, as Vaclav Havel points out, quite distinct from mere optimism. Hope is deeper.
Select Key Bible Verses on Hope
- Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen – Hebrews 11:1
- Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. – Prov 13:12
- For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace
, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. – Jeremiah 29:11 - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths – Prov 3:5-6
- Note also: many of the psalms are filled with praise and hope!
What are WebDefs?
WebDefs – simple definitions of key terms relating to ministry and healing arts – are a regular feature of NHM Ministrants. Offered (where applicable) in conjunction with select key scriptural passages and analysis, WebDefs can be a useful starting place for exploring a topic of interest.