Worry and anxiety often stem from a deep-seated desire to control the uncontrollable. When we face variables that we inherently cannot manage, our minds spiral into a state of apprehension. This loss of control can lead us to act out of character, revealing our raw, untrained selves.
Our reactions to stress and frustration expose our true character. When we can't control a situation, our anxiety and unease surface. We may present a calm demeanor when things are going well, but challenging circumstances reveal our mental instability and uneducated character. This exposure is particularly stark when we desire a beneficial outcome but are unable to influence events as we wish.
Recognizing our true character in these moments is difficult. However, there are strategies to make this realization more bearable. The key lies in exercising faith and hope. Faith is often touted as the solution to anxiety, but understanding what faith truly means is crucial.
Faith is defined as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). In essence, faith is the result of hope. If we are anxious or worried, it's not because we lack faith, but because our hope is not well-founded.
To develop genuine faith, we must first cultivate informed hope. This process starts with knowledge. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding in Ephesians 1:17-18, where he prays for wisdom and revelation to guide minds into knowing the hope of their calling. Knowledge enlightens our understanding and informs our hope.
An educated hope alleviates anxiety because it is based on a solid foundation of knowledge. Proverbs 11:9 and Isaiah 53:11 highlight the deliverance and justification that comes through knowledge. To have faith in anything, we need to understand what we are placing our hope in.
Our first step is to seek knowledge about what we hope for. This informed hope leads to a full and unwavering faith. When our hope is educated, it eliminates the root causes of worry and anxiety. An intelligent hope, purified by understanding, will not lead to unease.
Practical Steps to Develop Informed Hope:
Seek Knowledge: Understand what you are hoping for. Explore the reasons behind your hope.
Educate Your Hope: Ensure your hope is based on solid, factual knowledge rather than emotional willpower or misinformation.
Build Confidence: Let your informed hope guide you towards a stable and confident belief.
To overcome worry and anxiety, we must focus on building an informed hope. Faith, as the culmination of this hope, will naturally follow. By educating our hope, we create a foundation that is not easily shaken by life's uncontrollable variables. This approach not only alleviates anxiety but also leads to a healthier, more active life. So, before you tell yourself or someone else to "have faith," remember that you first need to seek knowledge and understand what you hope for. This informed hope will pave the way for a steadfast faith, free from worry and anxiety.