Your worst fear can become your best hope

Hope as a result of suffering is the story of Tristan Bernard, a French novelist.

He lived in terror of Hitler's Gestapo during World War II. His fear became reality. He and his wife were arrested. On his way to jail he said, with an expression of relief, “The time of fear is over, now comes the time of hope.”

Your worst fear coming true is a dreadful experience. The test came back positive — cancer is there. What you saw on the job as potential cut-back is true — your position is being terminated. The nagging suspicion you had is verified — your spouse wants a divorce.

Bernard's words, in a way, are true. “The time of fear is over, the time for hope has come.” There is no longer any doubt about the “problem.” Now you have no doubt what to ask God's help for.

Those who are suffering have reason to hope. God's letter to us, the Bible, contains specifically, helpful insight. We can rejoice in suffering, because we know that suffering develops perseverance, perseverance character, and character hope. Hope has great possibility to overcome discouragement and despair.

Filling the rooms and surrounding areas of your life with statements of hope and assurance is rewarding. Our caring God reaches to us in our trouble. He works in an atmosphere of love and hope.

We have a wonderful gift from God. Strength, assurance and rewarding results are in God's plan for those who “untie” His hands by trusting in divine help.

The Rev. Paul Killingsworth serves as pastor at Yuma First Assembly.