Finding Hope Through Discovery in Bible Study

A Life of Praise Finding Joy During Times of Suffering   August 27, 2022 Larry R Evans   Introduction Rejoice  in the Lord  always. I will say it again: Rejoice ! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philip 4:4-8) While Paul’s counsel to “Rejoice in the Lord always” was directed towards two women who were in conflict with each other, difficulties come in many shapes and sizes. His words were not empty. In Philippians 1:29,30 he wrote, For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him,  but also to suffer for him, since you are going through  the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.    We sometimes confuse the word “rejoice” with “happiness.”   At times, the trials and pressu

                                                                        Indestructible Hope Why Optimism Isn’t Enough   August 13, 2022 Larry R Evans   Introduction   In Luke 15 a father portraying God is found waiting for his prodigal son to return. In Habakkuk, we find God’s children waiting for God to do something. They are in need and in their desperation, they find God silent.  So, which is it?  Is God waiting on us or are we impatiently waiting for Him? In such situations are we called to be optimistic or hopeful?   QUESTION : Is there a difference between optimism and hope?  From a Christian perspective, how would you describe the difference if there is any?   The “Recency Effect” vs Biblical Hope   The “recency effect” is a psychological term that states that the most recent experiences we go through are the ones we remember. We assume that these experiences will continue. The focus is on getting through the day-to-day activities to survive.   Winston Churchill was immune to th