Daily Devotionals: Choosing Hope Amidst Life’s Setbacks

Scripture: Psalm 126:1–2

‘When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’ (Vv 33–34)

As we conclude our reflections on life as a journey, it’s good to remind ourselves of our destination. This Psalm was written after the Jews had returned from their Babylonian captivity. Seventy years when they had been forcibly removed from their homeland (Jeremiah 29:10–14). Seventy years of struggle, with many dying away from home. Many struggles and mighty readjustments to dreams and expectations were required. We can neither rewrite our past nor predict our future. Today is the only day we can shape. So, we build our life journey one day at a time, making choices about how we will show up each morning. This power to choose is capable of positively shaping our persona.

Life’s journey with God is one in which our character is formed. God chooses to collaborate with us in building a life story. The choices are always ours. We are invited to live in God’s shadow so that we become more like Jesus. This means staying very close as well as keeping our eyes fixed on our own glorious homecoming from captivity (Revelation 21:1–4). Despite life’s many setbacks we travel through life with a strong sense of God’s presence with us, participation in a vibrant community – the church, we love others as Jesus instructs, as well as finding a clear life purpose as active disciples. With Christ we discover hope is possible even in our bleakest experiences (Colossians 1:27). And hope will never disappoint us (Romans 5:1–5).

Today Consider what helps you when faced with a significant setback in your life?

So our Action today. How can we reframe our approach to life so that we free ourselves from past regrets and future fears and focus on living in Christ today?

Prayer: ‘Lord, life can knock me down but because of you I am not knocked out. Help to choose hope and to get back on my feet and carry on. Amen’

You can join the conversation, share your insights, or seek guidance on today’s devotional. Your questions and comments are a valuable part of our spiritual journey together. Please feel free to reach out at drmichajazz@outlook.com with your reflections or inquiries.

Rev Dr Micha Jazz PhD
Delmunach Christian Centre – Moray, Scotland
Grounded in Love, Rooted in Faith.
07526 188371
drmichajazz@outlook.com