Author: john hargrove

“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.

Theme Verse:

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

— Philippians 3:13–14 (NIV)

Devotion:

“It’s been a long road, getting from there to here. It’s been a long time, but my time is finally near…”

These opening lyrics from “Where My Heart Will Take Me” speak powerfully to the Christian walk. Life’s journey is not easy. It is filled with struggles, setbacks, and seasons of waiting. There are times when the road seems too long, when the night feels too dark, and when hope begins to flicker. But like the apostle Paul, we are called not to dwell on what is behind, but to press forward—to go where our heart, guided by Christ, will take us.

The New Testament repeatedly affirms that our journey in Christ is not a static experience, but a forward-moving call to transformation and purpose. Paul’s letter to the Philippians gives voice to this with passionate conviction: “I press on toward the goal…” This is not just a physical destination—it’s a spiritual one. It is the call to grow in Christ, to pursue holiness, to embrace our God-given mission with courage, even when it costs us comfort.

“I will see my dream come alive at last / I will touch the sky…”

God has placed dreams, gifts, and callings within our hearts—not merely for personal fulfillment, but for the glory of His Kingdom. And while our earthly dreams may falter or change, the dream of eternal life, of being fully united with Christ, is one that will never fail. Romans 8:38–39 assures us that nothing—“neither death nor life… neither the present nor the future… nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

No matter where your heart takes you—across oceans of change, into valleys of grief, or through mountains of triumph—Christ is already there. He has gone before you. He walks beside you. He lives within you. The promise is not that the journey will be easy, but that it will be worth it.

“I’ve got strength of the soul, and no one’s going to bend or break me…”

That strength does not come from our own resolve. It comes from the Spirit of God within us. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 that though we are hard pressed on every side, we are not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. Because Christ is our source, our heart can take us into new frontiers of faith, knowing that we are never alone.

Reflection Questions:

1. What are the “things behind” that you need to forget or release in order to press forward?

2. In what area of your life is God calling you to trust Him and take a step of faith?

3. How can you encourage someone else today who is weary from the long road?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the journey You have set before me. Though the road has been long and sometimes hard, I know that You are with me. Help me to press on—not in my own strength, but in Yours. Take my heart and lead me where You would have me go. Let me not fear the future, for I know that nothing can separate me from Your love. May my life glorify You, and may my journey always be led by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotional: Walking in Faith Through Life’s Struggles

Scripture Focus: John 16:33

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Introduction

Life is full of struggles—financial difficulties, broken relationships, health issues, and moments of doubt. Even the most faithful believers face obstacles that test their endurance and trust in God. The Apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, experienced these same hardships but learned to walk in faith and spiritual authority despite them. His life teaches us that overcoming obstacles isn’t about avoiding hardship but about standing firm in Christ through them.

John’s Journey: From Ordinary to Chosen

John was a fisherman before Jesus called him. He and his brother James left everything behind to follow Christ (Matthew 4:21-22). His life was transformed as he walked with Jesus, witnessing miracles and hearing profound teachings. Yet, his journey wasn’t without struggles. He saw Jesus betrayed, crucified, and rejected. He himself faced persecution, exile, and suffering for the Gospel.

Despite these challenges, John remained steadfast. His unwavering faith allowed him to receive deep revelations from God, including the vision recorded in the book of Revelation. His story reminds us that struggles do not mean God has abandoned us. Instead, they are often the very seasons where He strengthens our faith and deepens our spiritual authority.

Spiritual Authority: Walking in God’s Power

John’s life exemplifies the power of spiritual authority. He was known as the “disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23), not because Jesus favored him over others, but because John understood the depth of Christ’s love. This love gave him the confidence to trust God completely.

Spiritual authority is not about personal strength but about walking in alignment with God’s will. John was able to write profound truths because he was connected to Christ, the true source of power. When we trust in Jesus, we are not just enduring obstacles—we are overcoming them through His strength.

Faith Over Fear

John faced many moments that could have shaken his faith. He saw friends martyred, faced exile on the island of Patmos, and lived in a world that rejected Christ. But instead of allowing fear to control him, he chose faith.

When we encounter struggles, we have the same choice. Will we focus on the storm, or will we fix our eyes on Jesus? Faith does not mean ignoring difficulties, but it does mean trusting that God is greater than our circumstances.

Overcoming Obstacles: A Call to Persevere

Jesus never promised a life without trials. Instead, He promised peace in the midst of them. The key to overcoming obstacles is not to avoid them but to trust that God will lead us through them.

• Prayer: Just as John remained close to Jesus in prayer, we must make time to seek God daily.

• Scripture: God’s Word reminds us of His promises. Reading and meditating on Scripture gives us strength in tough times.

• Community: John walked with fellow believers. We, too, need a community of faith to support and encourage us.

• Obedience: Even when life was difficult, John obeyed God’s call. Walking in obedience brings spiritual breakthrough.

Life Struggles and God’s Faithfulness

When we go through trials, it’s easy to feel isolated or defeated. But John’s life reminds us that God is always at work. Even in exile, God gave John the Revelation that would strengthen believers for generations. In our struggles, God is still speaking, still leading, and still strengthening us.

Reflection Questions:

1. What obstacles are you currently facing that challenge your faith?

2. How can you walk in greater spiritual authority by trusting in God’s promises?

3. What steps can you take to deepen your faith in the midst of struggles?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of John, who remained faithful even in hardship. Help me to walk in spiritual authority, trusting that You have already overcome the world. Strengthen my faith, guide my steps, and help me to see obstacles as opportunities to grow closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Encouragement:

No matter what struggles you face, remember that Jesus has already won the victory. Like John, you are called to walk in faith, trusting that God is working all things for your good. Keep pressing forward—your breakthrough is coming.

The Best Is Yet to Come: A Lesson in Faith and Hope

In our journey of faith, there are moments when life feels overwhelming—when struggles seem insurmountable, and hope appears distant. Yet, as believers, we hold onto the profound truth that the best is yet to come. This promise is not based on wishful thinking but is deeply rooted in God’s Word, as highlighted in Lesson 7 of our Bible study.

God’s Plan is Greater Than Our Present Circumstances

One of the most reassuring messages in Scripture is that God’s plan is always greater than our current trials. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

No matter what we are facing today—loss, disappointment, or uncertainty—God’s purpose for our lives is still unfolding. His plans are designed for our ultimate good, even when we cannot immediately see the outcome.

Faith in the Future: Trusting God’s Timing

Abraham’s story is a powerful example of trusting that the best is yet to come. In Genesis 12, God calls Abraham to leave his homeland for a place he had never seen, promising to make him the father of a great nation. Yet, it took years before Abraham and Sarah saw the fulfillment of that promise. Their faith journey teaches us an essential lesson: God’s promises may take time, but they are always fulfilled in His perfect timing.

Similarly, in Romans 8:28, Paul reassures us:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Even in trials, God is shaping our future, orchestrating events beyond what we can comprehend.

Jesus: The Greatest Fulfillment of the Promise

The ultimate example of “the best is yet to come” is found in Jesus Christ. His life, death, and resurrection point us toward a future filled with eternal hope. In John 14:1-3, Jesus promises:

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

As believers, we are not just waiting for temporary blessings or earthly success—we are waiting for the eternal joy of being in God’s presence. No matter what trials we face, the ultimate victory is already secured in Christ.

Living with Expectant Hope

Because we know the best is yet to come, we should live with:

• Confidence in God’s promises – Trusting that His Word never fails.

• Patience in trials – Knowing that challenges refine our faith.

• Joy in the journey – Understanding that God is always at work.

The best is not just in some distant future—it starts today as we walk in faith, knowing that God’s goodness and mercy follow us every step of the way (Psalm 23:6).

Conclusion: A Future Secured in Christ

No matter where you are in your spiritual journey, hold onto this truth: God’s best is ahead. Whether in this life or the next, His blessings, His plans, and His eternal promises are beyond what we can imagine.

So, as we continue our walk of faith, let us remind ourselves daily—the best is yet to come.

Reflection Questions:

1. What promises from God are you holding onto in this season?

2. How can you trust God’s timing more in your life?

3. In what ways can you live with greater hope and expectation?

May this lesson encourage you to press forward, knowing that with God, our future is always brighter than our past.

Now going on four years of carrying the weight—listening to the paranoia, the fear, the uncertainty of everyone and everything. Four years of trying to steady the ship while others panic, of pushing forward when the ground keeps shifting beneath me. The exhaustion isn’t just physical; it’s mental, emotional, and relentless.

My wife is being emotionally battered by her father, and no matter how much I support her, I can’t shield her from that pain. 

My business partner—my dear friend—is locked in a struggle that runs deeper than business, fighting for stability, for clarity, for life itself. I see the burden she carries, and I feel powerless to lift it.

I’m turning 65. The weight of years and loss presses heavier than ever. In just this one year, so many family members and friends have died, each one another crack in the foundation, another reminder of how fragile everything is. Grief piles on top of exhaustion, and it all feels like too much.

The team is demoralized. What once felt like momentum now feels like resistance—every step forward met with more doubt, more fear, more obstacles. The weight of responsibility doesn’t lighten, even when my strength to carry it fades.

The hardest part of leadership isn’t making decisions; it’s carrying the unseen burdens, the silent fears of those who look to me for stability. And now, even the team is starting to crumble, their spirit fading, making the battle feel even lonelier. The darkness isn’t just exhaustion—it’s the feeling of being drained, disconnected, burdened by too much for too long.

So what now? When hope feels distant and pushing forward seems impossible, what’s left? Maybe the answer isn’t another fight, another push. Maybe the first step is acknowledging the exhaustion, allowing myself to feel the weight instead of ignoring it. Maybe it’s time to step back, reassess, and decide what still serves the mission—and what no longer does.

The weight is real. The darkness is real. But so is the resilience that got me this far.

If i could find a robot i would record “helpme obiwan. Only you can save me”

Walking Through the Darkness

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4

There are seasons in life when the weight feels unbearable. The pressures of leadership, the suffering of loved ones, the relentless march of time, and the loss of family and friends—it all compiles into a darkness that seems impossible to escape. I know this valley well. I have walked it for years now, feeling the burden of responsibility, grief, and exhaustion pressing down on my soul.

But in the midst of this darkness, I am reminded of a powerful truth: I am walking through the valley—I am not meant to stay here. The valley is not my destination. God has not abandoned me in this place of sorrow and struggle. He walks with me, even when I feel alone.

David, the shepherd-king who penned Psalm 23, knew hardship. He knew fear, betrayal, loss, and exhaustion. Yet he declared with confidence that he would fear no evil. Not because the valley wasn’t real, not because the darkness wasn’t overwhelming at times, but because he knew God was with him.

God’s rod and staff are not symbols of punishment, but of guidance and protection. The rod defends against the enemy, and the staff pulls the weary traveler back onto the right path. When I feel lost, when the burdens of life make it hard to see the way forward, I have to trust that God is still leading me, even when I can’t see the destination.

So what do I do in this valley? I lean into His presence. I speak honestly to Him, pouring out my fears, my exhaustion, and my grief. I remind myself that my strength is not enough—but His is. I rest in the truth that He has carried me this far, and He will not leave me now.

If you, too, are walking through the darkness, take heart. You are not alone. Keep walking. Keep trusting. The valley will not last forever, but God’s love and faithfulness will.

Prayer

Lord, I feel overwhelmed by the weight of everything around me. The burdens of leadership, the pain of loved ones, the losses that keep piling up—I feel like I am drowning. But I choose to trust that You are with me, even in this valley. Help me to take the next step, even when I can’t see the way forward. Strengthen my weary heart and remind me that You are my refuge and my guide. I will keep walking, knowing that You will never leave me. Amen.

“Aleluia” (or “Hallelujah”) is a term of Hebrew origin that means “Praise the Lord” or “Praise Yahweh.” It is derived from two Hebrew words:

• “Hallelu” (הַלְלוּ) – meaning “praise” (plural imperative)

• “Yah” (יָהּ) – a shortened form of Yahweh, the name of God in the Hebrew Bible

It is commonly used in religious contexts, especially in Christian and Jewish worship, to express joy, gratitude, and reverence toward God. In Christian liturgy, “Alleluia” is often sung as an expression of exaltation, particularly during celebrations like Easter.

Hope in a World That Feels Lost

“This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve, ‘THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNERSTONE.’” – 1 Peter 2:7

It’s easy to look at the world and feel despair. Corruption, suffering, and injustice seem to grow like weeds. Every day, the news reminds us how broken things are. Hope feels like a distant memory—something we might have believed in once but struggle to grasp now.

Maybe you’ve felt that weight. Maybe you’ve questioned, “What’s the point?” or wondered if anything good still remains. If that’s you, I want to tell you something that may surprise you: you’re not alone.

The world has been broken since the beginning. But there is one unshakable truth that has never changed—Jesus Christ remains the Cornerstone.

The One Who Stands When Everything Falls

The Bible tells us that Jesus was rejected by the very people who should have received Him. They saw Him as a threat, a nuisance—someone to be removed from the picture. But their rejection did not stop God’s plan. The same is true today.

People mock faith. They dismiss truth. They place their hope in governments, money, and technology, only to watch those things fail. But 1 Peter 2:7 reminds us that the One they rejected became the very foundation of everything that matters.

In a world that feels unstable, there is a Rock that will never move.

A Name Above the Darkness

“For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name.” – Philippians 2:9

No ruler, no power, no movement, no system is greater than Jesus Christ. Nations rise and fall. Leaders come and go. Empires crumble. Yet Jesus remains.

If you’ve lost hope in the world, maybe that’s a good thing. Because this world was never meant to be our savior. It was never meant to be the place where we find lasting peace. That peace is found in only one place—in Christ, the One who reigns over everything.

God is Not Absent

“For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form.” – Colossians 2:9

Maybe you’ve wondered if God has abandoned us. If He really exists, why doesn’t He step in? Why doesn’t He stop the chaos?

The truth is—He did step in. He came into our world, into our suffering. He walked among us. He felt the pain, the rejection, the loss. Jesus knows what it is to live in a broken world. He did not come to escape it—He came to redeem it.

Even now, He is not distant. He is not indifferent. He is here.

A Love That Can’t Be Destroyed

“And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” – Romans 5:5

Hopelessness tells us that love is gone. That goodness is lost. That everything will only get worse.

But that’s a lie.

God’s love is still being poured out. It is not dependent on governments, economies, or even human kindness. His love is not dictated by the state of the world—it comes from Him, and nothing can stop it.

When we surrender to Jesus, His Spirit fills us with a love the world cannot take away. It is not an empty hope—it is real, unshakable, and eternal.

A Life Poured Out, Not Wasted

“Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” – John 12:3

Mary could have held onto her expensive perfume. She could have saved it, stored it away for a more “practical” purpose. But instead, she poured it out for Jesus. And because of that, the whole house was filled with its fragrance.

Many people live their lives in fear, clinging to what little they have. They refuse to love, refuse to trust, refuse to hope—because they believe it will all be wasted.

But Mary shows us something different.

When we give ourselves to Christ, it is never wasted. Even in a dark world. Even in uncertainty. Even when everything around us seems to be falling apart.

Hope That Stands in the Storm

Jesus never promised an easy road. He never said this world would be perfect. But He did promise He would be with us. He did promise His love would never fail. He did promise that one day, He will set everything right.

So if you feel hopeless, if you look at the world and see nothing but darkness, hear this:

Jesus is still King.

His love is still real.

And you are not alone.

Place your hope in Him—not in people, not in nations, not in fleeting things. The world may crumble, but the Cornerstone stands firm. And when you stand on Him, so will you.

Daily Devotion: Loving God with All Your Heart

Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (ESV)

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

Reflection: A Call to Total Devotion

This passage, known as the Shema, is one of the most foundational declarations of faith in the Bible. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not meant to be compartmentalized—it should touch every area of our lives.

1. God’s Oneness and Sovereignty – The LORD is one, meaning He alone is God. There is no rival to His authority, and He calls for our exclusive devotion.

2. Loving God with Everything – The command to love God with all our heart, soul, and might is a call to complete surrender. It’s not just about feelings but about action—living in obedience and worship in every aspect of life.

3. Teaching and Living the Word – The passage emphasizes that God’s commands should be taught diligently to the next generation. Faith is not just personal; it is meant to be passed down, woven into our daily conversations, and displayed in our homes.

Application: Living Out the Shema

• Keep God at the Center – Start each day by acknowledging God’s presence and sovereignty. Let Him guide your thoughts and actions.

• Integrate Faith into Everyday Life – Talk about God’s Word with your family, in casual conversations, and in your decision-making.

• Pass the Faith On – Whether through teaching children, mentoring others, or simply living by example, let your life be a testimony of God’s truth.

• Mark Your Home with Faith – The Jewish practice of placing mezuzahs on doorposts reflects this verse. While we may not all do that, we can ensure our homes reflect God’s presence through Scripture, prayer, and a Christ-centered atmosphere.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, You alone are God, and I commit to loving You with all my heart, soul, and strength. Help me to live out my faith daily, to teach and encourage others in Your truth, and to keep Your Word close to my heart. May my home and life be a testimony of Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Lesson Overview

Key Focus:

Understanding how sin caused humanity to forfeit their God-given authority and how Christ restores it.

Lesson Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, participants will:
✅ Understand how Adam and Eve’s sin led to the loss of dominion.
✅ Recognize the immediate and long-term effects of sin on human authority.
✅ Identify how Satan deceives believers into relinquishing their authority today.
✅ Learn how to reclaim their authority in Christ through faith.

Lesson Outline

I. Introduction: The Authority Given to Humanity

• Genesis 1:26-28 – God’s original plan was for humanity to have dominion over the earth.
• Definition of Authority: The right to exercise power or rule over something.
• Adam and Eve’s Role:
  • Rulers under God’s sovereignty.
  • Given dominion over creation, including the power to subdue the earth.

Discussion Prompt:

• What do you think authority looked like before the Fall?
• How did Adam and Eve express dominion over creation?