I tend to think that fewer difficulties and more money would make my life a lot better. I’m probably not alone in thinking that way. How about you?

More than likely, you’ve got some sort of conflict in some of your relationships. Your boss doesn’t appreciate you. Your co-worker doesn’t like you. Your child is disrespectful. Your spouse isn’t meeting your needs.

If the conflict was resolved or the person would just see things your way…life would be better.

Maybe you’re battling a health issue. Could be nothing worse than a cold. Or it could be cancer. And if it’s not you, then it’s a family member or close friend.

If God would just miraculously heal you or your loved one…life would be perfect.

Money. Money. Money. Does a day go by that you don’t feel some level of concern over your business or family finances? “Concern” is putting it mildly, huh? More often it’s worry, fear or anxiety.

If God would just give you that raise you’ve been waiting for or provide the new job you’ve been praying for…everything would be okay.

We think that way. At least I do. Less problems + more money = happiness and a better life.

It’s not God’s way though. I wish it was.

God’s way is to offer joy and peace and overflowing hope regardless of relationship problems, biopsy results or the balance in your investment account. Romans 15:13 says:

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

God’s way isn’t natural. His joy and peace aren’t dependent on favorable circumstances. Instead, as we choose to focus on God and His character–His goodness, His faithfulness, His love, His power–we experience His joy and peace, which results in overflowing hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

This isn’t easy. And in my experience, joy, peace and hope don’t come without serious effort. It’s an everyday, even moment by moment, discipline to focus our thoughts on the truth of God’s word and not what we see and hear all around us. Very little in our culture encourages belief in God and His word. On the contrary, the media and even some of our friends seem intent on focusing on the worst possible scenario.

In Hebrews 11:6, we’re told God “rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”

Want joy and peace that leads to overflowing hope? It’s a supernatural process that begins with trusting God, not what you see. Then God Himself, by the power of the Holy Spirit, will produce true, lasting joy and peace in you.

Choose to begin believing Him today. Start by meditating on Romans 15:13. Pay particular attention to what God promises to do and what we’re supposed to do.

Joy, peace and hope await you. Really.