Hope Filled, Part 4: Addition by Subtraction

BRIAN BEHRENDS, CREATIVE PASTOR

We have this hope as an
anchor for the soul, firm and secure.
Hebrews 6:19

The Problem
You can’t be hope-filled if you’re already
.

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Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. 1 Kings 19:11–12 (New King James Version)

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

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Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13 (English Standard Version)

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity.” James Clear (Atomic Habits)

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If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:31–32

Lies don’t have to be true to cause damage,
they just have to be .

Do not despise these small beginnings,
for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.
Zechariah 4:10 (New Living Translation)

Reflection Questions

• What’s one thing filling your life that you need to let go of?
• What’s one small practice you could start this week that would give you hope?

Small Group Questions

1. Have you ever felt like you should have hope but just couldn’t access it? What do you think was getting in the way?
2. What’s a subtle lie our culture tells us about what we should be putting our hope in? How is God’s way different and why is it better?
3. What’s something you’ve unintentionally let shape your thoughts or emotions lately (social media, news, etc.)? How has it affected your hope?
4. What’s one truth from Scripture that has anchored you during a hard season? How did you hold onto it when hope felt hard to find?
5. With the idea of starting small, what’s one thing you could try this week that might lead to greater hope over time?
6. How can we pray for you right now and throughout the week?