Christian hope is not pretending that life is better than it is. The Bible includes people who grieve, protest and tell God that they cannot see a way forward. You can be honest about pain and disappointment. Faith does not require you to tidy those feelings before you speak to God.
After Jesus died, two of his followers said, “We had hoped…” Their future had collapsed, yet the risen Jesus was already walking beside them before they recognised him. The Christian basis for hope is Jesus himself, especially his resurrection, rather than confidence that one particular outcome will happen.
Start with the next small step. Tell somebody what is happening, accept practical help, pray a sentence if that is all you can manage, and stay connected to people who can carry hope with you. At The Lakes Church we want to listen without offering a quick answer or using a Bible verse to dismiss your pain.
If hopelessness has become thoughts of harming yourself, tell someone now. Call 000 if you are in immediate danger, or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Asking for urgent help is not a failure of faith. Your life matters, and you should not face that moment alone.
If you have questions, you can ask us anything at https://thelakes.org.au/contact-us/