DESPAIR

When dire circumstances press in around you, finding a way out of its unyielding grip appears impossible. If fear enters in, 'despair' is not far behind. 

The apostle Paul suffered relentless adversity from all sides, yet that onslaught could not rob him of the 'peace that passes understanding' ... We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. (2 Corinthians 4:8) 

He knew that, whether he lived or died (Philippians 1:23-24), whether he had plenty or had nothing (Philippians 4:12-13), his momentary suffering carried eternal meaning ... For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. (2 Corinthians 4:17).

If a person willfully continues to be in a state of despair ... he has turned his back on 'hope'. That man has chosen to disregard the Lord's promises, fix his gaze on this world, and look to it for a resolution. 

Hope emanates from a believer's eternal point of view, not the few days he lives on this earth. David gave us a model of how to talk ourselves off the ledge when we're tempted to despair: Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him. (Psalm 43:5)

Regardless of how desperate or frightened you may be at any moment, know that God's goodness remains steadfast. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

Trust Him.