Anchoring Hope in God's Promises Amidst Challenges

Summary

Hope is a powerful force that sustains us through the most challenging seasons of life. In a world where negativity and disappointment seem to be everywhere, it’s easy to let go of hope and settle for less than what God has promised. Yet, God calls us to be people who hold on to hope, even when circumstances seem impossible. Abraham’s story is a testament to this: even when there was no reason for hope, he kept hoping, fully convinced that God was able to do what He promised. This kind of hope is not wishful thinking; it is anchored in the unchanging Word of God.

There are times when the waiting gets long, and the promise seems further away than ever. Like the woman of Shunem, disappointment can make us afraid to hope again, to the point where we resist encouragement because we don’t want to be let down. But God invites us to grab hold of hope once more, to refuse to let go of the rope, and to trust that His supernatural hand will move when we least expect it. The gap between what God has said and what we see is where faith and hope must work together.

To hold on to hope, start with what God has said. Find a promise in His Word that speaks to your situation and cling to it. Don’t let your mind, with all its doubts and calculations, talk you out of what God can do. The mind is often the greatest enemy of hope, feeding us reasons why things can’t change. Instead, build your faith daily—feed on the Word, surround yourself with believers who trust God, and listen to anointed teaching that stirs your spirit.

Personal testimony brings this truth home. After years of waiting and disappointment, after every natural avenue was exhausted, God fulfilled His promise in our family. The joy that comes when the promise is finally realized is indescribable, and it’s all the sweeter for the waiting. But the breakthrough only comes to those who keep hoping, who refuse to let go, and who trust that God’s timing is perfect. Only God can do what no one else can, and He is faithful to His Word.

Key Takeaways

- Hope is Anchored in God’s Promise, Not Circumstances
True hope is not based on what we see or feel, but on what God has spoken. Abraham’s hope persisted even when reality contradicted the promise, reminding us that the foundation of hope is always “God said.” When we anchor our hope in His Word, we are not swayed by the ups and downs of life. [01:06:10]

- The Mind is the Battleground—Stop Figuring and Start Trusting
Our minds are quick to calculate, doubt, and present every reason why God’s promise can’t come to pass. The enemy works through our thoughts and senses to undermine hope. We must learn to silence the noise of doubt and choose to believe what God has said, even when it defies logic or experience. [01:12:19]

- Faith Must Be Built Daily Through the Word and Community
Faith is not a one-time event but a daily discipline. Feeding on the Word, meeting regularly with faith-filled believers, and listening to anointed teaching are essential practices that strengthen our grip on hope. These habits build spiritual muscle, enabling us to hold on when the wait is long and the battle is fierce. [01:21:57]

- Testimonies Fuel Hope for the Impossible
Hearing and sharing stories of God’s faithfulness—whether miraculous healings or long-awaited breakthroughs—remind us that God is still at work. Testimonies are not just encouragement; they are prophetic declarations that what God did for one, He can do for another. They stir faith to keep hoping, even when all natural hope is gone. [01:09:15]

- Breakthrough Belongs to Those Who Refuse to Let Go
The joy of fulfilled promise is reserved for those who keep hoping, who refuse to let go of the rope even when disappointment and delay threaten to overwhelm. God’s timing is perfect, and the longer the wait, the sweeter the victory. Only God can do what no one else can, and He responds to persistent, hope-filled faith. [01:32:05]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[50:35] - Celebrating the Church and Its Leaders
[51:35] - The Importance of Spiritual Accountability
[52:48] - Focusing on God’s Faithful Servants
[54:23] - Excellence and Empowerment in the Body
[55:59] - Holding On to Hope: Introduction
[57:14] - Abraham’s Example of Hope Against Hope
[58:51] - Fully Convinced: The Power of God’s Promise
[59:47] - When Hope Grows Dim
[01:01:22] - The Woman of Shunem: Hope Deferred
[01:03:19] - Hope is Like a Rope
[01:06:10] - Step 1: Start with What God Said
[01:10:45] - Step 2: Stop Figuring with Your Mind
[01:14:59] - Step 3: Build Your Faith Daily
[01:21:57] - Three Ways to Build Faith
[01:26:36] - Personal Testimony: Waiting for the Promise
[01:29:54] - The Joy of Fulfilled Promise
[01:32:05] - Only God Can Do the Impossible
[01:33:56] - Invitation to Salvation
[01:38:13] - Leading in a Prayer of Salvation
[01:40:02] - Prayer for Fresh Hope and Closing Worship

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Holding On to Hope

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### Bible Reading

Romans 4:18-21 (NLT)
> Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have.” And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Romans 4:18-21, what was Abraham’s response when there was “no reason for hope”? What did he do, and what was the result?
2. In the sermon, what example was given about someone who was afraid to hope again because of disappointment? ([01:02:30])
3. What are the three steps the preacher gave for holding on to hope? ([01:04:37])
4. What did the preacher say is often the greatest enemy of hope in our lives? ([01:10:45])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Abraham’s hope and faith are highlighted as examples for us? What does it mean to be “fully convinced” that God can do what He promises? ([01:59:47])
2. The sermon described hope as a “rope” we hold onto. What does this image communicate about the nature of hope, especially during long seasons of waiting? ([01:03:19])
3. The preacher said that our minds can be the battleground for hope, often feeding us reasons why things can’t change. Why is it so hard to silence doubts, and what does it look like to “stop figuring with your mind and start trusting”? ([01:12:19])
4. How do testimonies of God’s faithfulness (like the healing story or the preacher’s own family story) help fuel hope in others? ([01:09:15])

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### Application Questions

1. Is there an area in your life right now where you feel like hope is fading or has already faded? What is it, and what would it look like to “grab hold of the rope” again? ([01:04:37])
2. The sermon encouraged us to start with what God has said. Is there a specific promise from God’s Word that you need to cling to in your current situation? If not, how can you find one this week? ([01:06:10])
3. The preacher shared that the mind is often the greatest enemy of hope. What are some thoughts or doubts that regularly try to talk you out of believing God’s promises? How can you address or replace those thoughts? ([01:10:45])
4. Who are the people in your life that help build your faith and hope? Are there any relationships or sources of negativity you need to limit to protect your hope? ([01:14:59])
5. The sermon gave three practical ways to build faith: daily Bible reading, meeting with faith-filled believers, and listening to anointed teaching. Which of these is strongest in your life right now, and which one needs more attention? What’s one step you can take this week to grow in that area? ([01:21:57])
6. Have you ever experienced a breakthrough after a long season of waiting and hoping? If so, how did it feel, and what did you learn about God’s timing? If not, how can you keep your hope alive while you wait? ([01:32:05])
7. The preacher said, “Only God can do what no one else can.” Is there something in your life that only God can do? How can the group pray with you and encourage you to keep hoping for that breakthrough? ([01:32:58])

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Close in prayer, asking God to renew hope in every heart and to help each person hold on to His promises, no matter what the circumstances look like.

Devotional

Day 1: Keep Hoping Against All Odds

Even when circumstances seem impossible, God calls us to keep hoping and trusting in His promises. Abraham’s story reminds us that hope is not based on what we see, but on what God has spoken. When everything in the natural world says it’s over, faith holds on to the rope of hope, believing that God is able to do what He has promised. No matter how long you’ve waited or how unlikely your situation appears, God’s word is more powerful than your reality. Let your hope be anchored in Him, and keep pulling on that rope, knowing that God’s supernatural hand can turn things around in a moment. [57:14]

Romans 4:18-21 (NLT)
Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!” And Abraham’s faith did not weaken, even though, at about 100 years of age, he figured his body was as good as dead—and so was Sarah’s womb. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you’ve stopped hoping because it seems impossible? Ask God to help you pick up the rope of hope again today and trust Him for the impossible.


Day 2: Stand on God’s Promises

For every situation of hopelessness, God has given a promise in His Word to hold on to. When you feel like letting go, go back to what God has said—His promises are the anchor for your soul. Just as Abraham clung to God’s word about descendants, and as the woman with cancer held fast to “by His stripes I was healed,” you are invited to find a promise in Scripture and make it your confession. Speak it, meditate on it, and let it become the foundation of your hope. God’s promises are true, and He is faithful to fulfill them in your life. [01:06:10]

1 Peter 2:24 (ESV)
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

Reflection: What is one specific promise from God’s Word that you need to cling to today? Write it down, speak it out loud, and let it become your anchor.


Day 3: Stop Figuring with Your Mind

Your mind is often the greatest enemy of hope, constantly calculating reasons why God’s promise can’t come to pass. The natural mind is limited by what it sees, hears, and understands, but God’s ways are higher. Abraham did not let his mind talk him out of God’s promise, even when all logic said it was impossible. To hold on to hope, you must silence the negative voices—both internal and external—and refuse to let your senses or the opinions of others override what God has spoken. Limit the influence of negativity and focus on the truth of God’s Word. [01:12:19]

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Reflection: What negative thoughts or voices do you need to silence today so you can trust God’s promise above your own understanding?


Day 4: Build Your Faith Daily

Faith is not a one-time event but a daily discipline. Just as Abraham’s faith grew stronger over time, you are called to build your faith every day through God’s Word, fellowship with other believers, and listening to anointed teaching. Make it a habit to read Scripture, meet regularly with people who trust God, and fill your mind with faith-building messages. As you do, your spiritual muscles will strengthen, enabling you to hold on to hope even when the wait is long. Faith is the key to pleasing God and receiving all He has for you. [01:17:16]

Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to intentionally build your faith—whether it’s reading Scripture, joining a group, or listening to faith-filled teaching?


Day 5: The Joy of Fulfilled Hope

When you refuse to let go of hope, even after years of waiting and disappointment, God’s faithfulness brings a joy that is sweeter for the struggle. The testimony of answered prayer—whether it’s a long-awaited child, a restored relationship, or a breakthrough—releases laughter and gratitude that only God can give. Don’t give up before your miracle; keep hoping, keep believing, and trust that God’s timing is perfect. The longer the wait, the greater the joy when His promise comes to pass. [01:32:05]

Psalm 126:5-6 (ESV)
Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Reflection: Where have you been tempted to give up hope? Imagine the joy God has in store for you when His promise is fulfilled—how can you praise Him in advance today?

Quotes

Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping, believing he would become the father of many nations. Now, you got to remember, he doesn't have any kids, zero kids. Father, even if he had 20 kids, it'd be a big thing to know you're going to be the father of many nations. He had zero kids. For God had said to him, that's how many descendants you will have. [00:57:14] (00:00:28 seconds) Edit Clip

He was fully convinced. Somebody say fully convinced. And you see, you can't say that without conviction. You got to say fully convinced that God is able to do what he promises. [00:59:21] (00:00:18 seconds) Edit Clip

Hope is like a rope. And maybe you have a hold of it, but you're not even really pulling on it. Or maybe you just let go altogether. And today, I believe the Lord is going to stir something up in you. He's going to encourage you to grab back a hold of that rope and begin to pull again with the muscles of faith and begin to see God do something. [01:04:49] (00:00:25 seconds) Edit Clip

For every case of hopelessness, there's a powerful promise that God has for you to hold on to. How do you hold on to the rope? With the promise of God. We don't just sing about the promises. We've got to get a hold of a promise. [01:06:20] (00:00:24 seconds) Edit Clip

Your brain is perfectly calibrated to convince you to give up on God's word. Did you know that? It's fallen. Your mind is fallen, and your mind will tell you all kind of goofy stuff that contradicts the word of God. [01:11:16] (00:00:18 seconds) Edit Clip

Let me tell you the pure joy of the promise of God coming to pass. And the longer it takes, the sweeter it is. Oh, my goodness. Such joy. Every day when I see my wife, I get up really early in the mornings, and I go in the other room, and I pray and read the word and do things. And my wife, she doesn't get up as early as me. And every morning when she comes in there, and she comes, I mean, her belly is out. She comes wobbling. I just laugh. There's just laughter. I know why Sarah laughed about having a kid, and they named him Isaac, which means laughter. Because when you've been believing God for something for a long time, and you finally see it, great joy is released. [01:31:15] (00:00:50 seconds) Edit Clip

But let me tell you, it ain't coming if you don't keep hoping. It ain't coming if you don't keep, if you're not holding on to the rope, you can't win the tug of war. And it's a tug of war with the devil. He don't want you to have those good things that God has promised you. Because there are things God has promised you that you're never going to get in the natural. That a bank loan, a degree, a connection, a job will never give you what God can give you. Only God can bring a wayward child back home. Only God can set someone free from drug addiction. Only God can do a miracle and get you out of a horrible financial situation. Only God can reconcile a relationship that has been torn apart. Only God, only God, only God can do that. [01:32:05] (00:01:05 seconds) Edit Clip

But God, when we put our trust in him, hold on to his promise and say, I'm not giving up. I'm going to be like Abraham. It don't make no sense. I'm 100 years old. Sarah's 90 years old. It makes absolutely no sense. But I'm just going to keep on hoping. And guess what happened? Isaac showed up. And now, just as God said, you have many nations. Abraham's descendants are many nations. His word is true. [01:33:12] (00:00:34 seconds) Edit Clip