For anyone who has ever experienced the bondage of fear and anxiety, overwhelming hopelessness usually accompanies this gripping affliction. Without hope, the future is very dark.

In Romans 12:12, Paul encourages us to, "be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

The hope of a believer is not like any other hope in this world. Our hope comes from the Lord. Psalms 25:3 tells us that hope in the Lord will not fail us. "No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame..."

Today, I ask you a question: where does your hope come from? I know everyone of you hopes to be free from fear and panic. But, where does that hope come from? Do you hope in a doctor and his wisdom? Do you hope this new medication will finally work? Do you hope in the new counselor? Do you hope in your abilities to beat this thing?

What is the source of your hope?

Please don't get me wrong. I believe God can work through doctors and medication and counselors, but if your entire hope is based on those things alone, then you will fall short of the peace that God has waiting for you.

Another command Paul gives is to be patient in affliction. This command, I must admit, is not a pleasant one. I am sure Paul didn't really know about panic attacks when he wrote this. But, God did. Our Father calls us to be patient.

I have met lots of people who are now free from this debilitating disorder. For most of them, freedom was not achieved overnight. It took time and patience. Freedom was conceived in prayer, and carried in hope. Finally, it was birthed in faith. Just as pregnancy requires patience and endurance, so does the road to recovery.

Finally, be faithful in prayer. Although we may not understand or comprehend the "why's" of our condition, we must persevere in prayer. God does nothing without prayer. It will be in that quiet time with your Father that he will impart courage and confidence.

Blessings!

Russell

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|  Russell Pond     <><
|  Season of Peace
|  email:  ponder@season.org
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© Russell Pond 1999
Reprinted with permission