High hopes

“High Hopes & Holy Vision: Trusting God Through the Highs and Lows”

Theme Scripture

Romans 5:3–5 (ESV):

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

Opening Reflection

The song “High Hopes” captures the human desire to believe in something greater—despite circumstances that don’t seem to support it. We are reminded of the call to dream big, to press on even when we don’t have the resources or answers. In many ways, this mirrors the life of faith. Scripture tells us that hope is not wishful thinking—it is a discipline rooted in trust in the character of God.

Devotional Narrative

“Had to have high, high hopes for a living…”

These lyrics echo the persistent longing to rise above limitations. Abraham had high hopes when he left Ur, “not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). David held high hopes when he faced Goliath with only a sling and five stones. Paul carried high hopes even while writing epistles from prison.

What fueled their perseverance? A vision of what God had promised. They didn’t have all the details, but they had faith in God’s character.

“Didn’t know how, but I always had a feeling…”

This lyric speaks directly to the life of faith. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” We are often called to obey and trust before we understand. Our journey of discipleship is not always paved with clarity—but it is always grounded in promise.

“Mama said, fulfill the prophecy…”

As Christians, we’re invited to fulfill a higher calling. We are called not just to live for something, but to live from something—from the identity we have in Christ. The prophecy we fulfill isn’t about worldly success, but kingdom impact. Romans 8:29 reminds us that we are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ.

God doesn’t ask for perfection—He asks for surrender, obedience, and endurance.

Discussion Questions

1. What is a dream or calling God has placed on your heart that you are still waiting to see fulfilled?

2. Have you ever felt like your “high hopes” were foolish or unrealistic? How do you reconcile that with faith?

3. How does Romans 5:3–5 speak to the way you view your current season—whether high or low?

Prayer Focus

Invite participants to pray over the “high hopes” in their hearts—those dreams and burdens that may feel stalled or unreachable. Ask God to reignite faith, provide wisdom, and cultivate endurance. Encourage the group to pray for one another by name.

Closing Encouragement

Hope in Christ is never misplaced.

Your setbacks are not signs of failure—they are shaping your character.

God is not finished with your story.

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV):

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Keep your hope high—not in the outcome, but in the One who holds the outcome.