Finding Hope and Purpose When Times Are Tough
Let’s be real: it seems like every day the news gets a bit gloomier. Stories about politics and politicians, crime, conflict, and all kinds of trouble fill our screens and social feeds. Many people feel like America—and the world—is in crisis, facing darkness both morally and spiritually. It’s easy to worry that hope is fading.
But even as times get tough, there’s another side to the story—a promise found in Scripture. The Bible tells us that while darkness covers the earth, God’s light and glory will shine even brighter on those who trust in Him. Isaiah 60:1-2 says, “For the darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the peoples; but the Lord shall rise upon you, and His glory shall be seen upon you.” That means when things look bleak, God’s presence can be seen even more clearly through those who follow Him.
What does God’s glory look like? It’s not just a glowing light or a feeling—it’s God at work among us, showing His power and goodness in real, life-changing ways. Throughout history, people have experienced moments when God’s Spirit was poured out in amazing ways, bringing healing, hope, and new beginnings. The Bible talks about signs and wonders, miracles and unusual events that point people to Jesus. Many believers today feel that another wave of revival—a huge outpouring of God’s Spirit—is on the way, bigger than anything we’ve seen before.
God is building His Church, and nothing can stop it. Over the years, those special moments when God’s Spirit moved in powerful ways have helped prepare people for what’s coming next. It’s like getting ready for a big celebration—there’s a sense that something wonderful is about to happen.
But there’s a challenge: not everyone sees this light. 2 Corinthians 4:4 says “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ.” In other words, the world can be blinded to the hope and truth Jesus brings. That’s where we come in. Jesus calls His followers “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16). We’re supposed to live in a way that lets God’s light shine through us—helping, loving, and serving others so they see something different in us and are drawn to God.
It’s not always easy, but the path is clear: hold on to God’s truth, keep your eyes on Him, and trust in His love no matter what happens. The apostle Paul says that “Christ in you is the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). When we let God fill us with His goodness, we’re transformed—we start to reflect His glory more and more, just like it says in 2 Corinthians 3:18.
Isaiah 60:1-8 paints a picture of people rushing toward God for safety, rest, and belonging. It’s like a flock of doves flying home—they find shelter and peace in God. What a beautiful sight to see people turning to Jesus, finding hope even in hard times.
So yes, the world might look dark right now. But God’s light is real and powerful, and He’s ready to shine through us. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, remember that God’s glory is not just for special people—it’s for anyone willing to turn to Him. Let’s open our hearts, let His light in, and share it with those around us.
Blessings!
Minister Aleatha F Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 