February 26, 2017

Hope: 5 Tips for Keeping it Alive


“How many success stories do you need to hear before you make your own?”—Todo (emphasis mine)

Victory is hard work. Celebrities in any field can confirm this. Every accomplishment takes time and effort. It doesn’t just happen. We also have to simply refuse to accept failure in order to truly move forward. Here are five Bible-based suggestions for positivity:

1--Keep a more long-term, broad perspective.

You and God are a majority. God can make a way when we can’t see a way. Our vision is narrow; His isn’t.

All winters come to an end. My local weather is variable, especially at this time of year. We had some strong winds and below-freezing temperatures for a while. The wind chill was about 16 degrees. Within a few days, we were up to about 60 degrees. I’m wearing short sleeves right now—at the end of February.

2--Don’t accept limitations or negative conditioning. Here are some examples of how I’ve conquered setbacks:
  • I could’ve died from my current medical problems, if I hadn’t found a natural solution for them.
  • I have survived automobile accidents.
  • I came through two difficult childbirth experiences.
  • I beat a childhood of abuse at school.

3--Don’t get stuck or settle.

Whatever you’re going through, it’s probably not “as good as it gets”. If everyone allowed themselves to be defined by…
  • Poverty
  • Abuse
  • Discrimination
  • Fear
  • Negative environment
  • Medical problems
  • Financial setbacks
  • Addiction

…many famous people would still be living in obscurity.

4--Cast down strongholds.

Often, we can allow fear, pain, and anger to build metaphorical fortresses in our minds. I’m referring to heavily fortified medieval castles, not pretty modern estates with more subtle defenses.

My good friend, Carol Graham, wrote a wonderful article about how we can move beyond heartache here. She states that we must have a burning desire to move beyond it. In addition, we must foster positive thoughts and self-responsibility.

5--Break through barriers.

Throw away those labels that circumstances or people have pinned on you. Don’t allow them to box you in and keep you down. Your past does not have to define you.

My Conclusion

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”—Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)



Why was an eagle used as an example in this scripture? It’s symbolic. We may often feel like chickens. They live on the ground. They don’t fly high. On the other hand, eagles fly 10,000 to 15,000 feet in the air. Their flight speed is about 65 mph, and they can glide for hours.

We’re supposed to soar like eagles, but we frequently limit ourselves to the ground like chickens. There’s a well-known saying that the only person holding you back is you.

For more cases of hope against the odds, please see my book, Accept No Trash Talk: Overcoming the Odds.

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