Hope of the Heart

The weather was cold and gloomy the morning we launched our canoes. It was the outset of a week-long adventure, paddling the Androscoggin River in Maine. It began to rain early in the afternoon and continued as we pulled ashore to set up camp. Pitching tents and building fires were daunting tasks. Our spirits were as gloomy as the weather.

Then at dusk, as the rain began to subside, we witnessed an amazing sight. In the sky we spotted multiple rainbows gleaming through the mist. This unexpected glimpse of hope rejuvenated us, reminding us of the promise of God’s presence and watchful care. The sun came out the next day and continued to shine throughout our journey.

Prolonged periods of physical and emotional distress can cause us to be despondent. We long for assurance of God’s provision and care. But God has promised divine presence and strength to sustain us in times of adversity. God’s promises are truly the hope of the heart, and God is always faithful. When we seek God, we will discover rainbows of hope that can lift our spirits, however challenging our circumstances.