When You Can’t Hear Hope Anymore

“Moses reported this to the Israelites, but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labour.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ NIVUK‬

Sometimes life gets so hard you can’t even hear hope anymore. That’s where Israel was. Moses came with a message straight from God — “I will rescue you! I will bring you out!” — but the people couldn’t take it in. Why? The Bible says, “Because of their discouragement and harsh labour.”

Discouragement can make you deaf to God’s promises. When you’ve been knocked down enough times, you stop expecting anything good. Your head hangs low, your faith feels small, and all you can see is the mud beneath your feet. The stars are still shining above you, but you’re too weary to lift your head and notice.

Discouragement is dangerous because it doesn’t just feel bad — it shapes your reality. When you expect the worst, you usually find it. You start to believe the negative before the positive. You see the glass half empty, not half full. Jesus said, “According to your faith let it be done to you.” (Matthew 9:29). Faith — for good or bad — has creative power. Expect failure, and you’ll find reasons to fail. Expect God’s goodness, and you’ll start to see it everywhere.

So how do you pull out of the downward spiral? How do you lift your head again?

First, get back into the Word of God. Romans 10:17 says, “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” When you read God’s Word, it replaces hopeless thoughts with hope-filled truth. The Bible reminds you that what you see isn’t the final word — what God says is. His Word breathes faith into tired hearts and makes room for miracles.

Second, get around the right people. You can’t stay encouraged if everyone around you is negative. Ask yourself, “When I’m with that person, does my faith rise or fall?” The Bible says, “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33). But good company — faith-filled friends, church family, worshippers and prayer warriors — will lift your spirit and help you see again.

That’s why being in church matters so much. When you gather with God’s people, sing His praises, and hear His Word, something powerful happens — hope comes alive again.

Maybe today you feel like the Israelites — beaten down, too tired to believe. But listen: God’s promise hasn’t changed. The rescue is still on the way. So lift your head. Look up. The stars are still there — and so is your God.

Today, I declare that discouragement will not have the final word in my life. When my heart feels heavy, I speak the truth of God’s Word over my soul: “Why, my soul, are you downcast?… Put your hope in God” (Psalm 42:5).

I declare that my hope is anchored in the Lord, not in circumstances, feelings, or outcomes. “Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Even when I feel weak, God is lifting me, steadying me, and strengthening me again. God is the God of hope, and He fills me with joy and peace as I trust Him (Romans 15:13).

To help us continue producing these FREE resources would you consider sowing a seed using the link above or make a purchase from our online shop. Every little helps. Thank you!

Believe & Confess Adult Colouring Book

Scriptures & Declarations for Faith, Relaxation, and Mindfulness

Rediscover peace and purpose with the Believe & Confess adult colouring book – a faith-filled tool designed to deepen your connection with God’s Word while promoting relaxation and mindfulness.

Part of the Believe & Confess Range

 Order Your Copy Here