When we pray, we are speaking to the One Whose eternal purpose and designs are unfolding as our present realities. In order to find hope in them, we must seek HIM and HIS perspective. This requires a keen understanding of the redemptive nature of our existence, which points to the glorious gospel of Christ.

When you come to the place where you can't do anything else, you must stand still and believe... When you can't do anything, let God do it all.

These criminals represent us. One of them recognized Jesus for who he was and received him; Jesus promised that when he died he would be in heaven with him. The other man rejected Jesus and closed his heart. Unlike the first criminal, when he died he didn't go to heaven. He went to hell. In that sense, these two men on either side of Jesus are just like every person. We either embrace Christ as our Savior and spend eternity with him, or we reject him and say, 'I don't believe it. I'll have nothing to do with.' And these people spend eternity separated from him.

What kind of future is in God's plan? A good one to which you can look forward. That's why you can hope.

When you say, I don't know exactly what God is doing, but I know he's in control that's evidence you're trusting Him.

When it's personal and painful, humble yourself.

Trust means you anchor your heart in the reality of God's awareness of your situation.