RLD: Declaring Hope

                                     

     

Hope is not dead.

I love the moments in life when you so clearly hear the voice of God, it shakes your reality and gives you a glimpse into the depth of His heart and His love. I had a moment like this on outreach while walking in the red light district. The girls were set up in storage buildings or hole in the wall locations, with misleading signs as hair salons or massage parlors. Though this type of prostitution is frowned upon, it is not officially titled as prostitution in this country. Legally, there is no help for these young women to protect them from those who prey on innocent lives. At least, not yet. With prayer and influence, this can be changed, as we have seen it begin to change in Hong Kong. 

While walking, I felt an overwhelming sense of death. It was heavy and depressing. My spirit was saddened to the point of breaking and I asked God, "What is this? What died?" the answer I expected did not come. He did not tell me about a person or a people. Rather, He went to the root of the death. He said, "Ashley, hope died here." 

Hope. Dreams. Love. Everything and anything that gives breath to life. This revelation hit the same as if I had been running full speed and hit a brick wall. Not knowing what to say or how to pray, I asked the Creator what He had to say about this.....what was the truth?

"Hope Is Not Dead."

Did you read that?

HOPE Is Not Dead.

I don't think you are understanding this yet.

HOPE IS NOT DEAD!

There is life and joy and promises and a good God with good plans! There is healing and restoration to family and friends! There is hope! For all people! His desire is this! 

Hope is not dead!

Hope is not dead.

I spent the next hour declaring hope, life, and freedom over a place consumed with darkness, depression, and, yes, death. Partnering with God, we brought light. We pushed back the darkness. 

And you know what?

I believe it made a difference.

Since that time, those four words have not left my mind or my heart. If ever four words could 'preach', these are four words that can preach all by themselves.

Hope is not dead.

These are not just words for the girls who are trapped or the pimps who are deceived. These are words for all people who have ever felt like their hopes have died. Any person who has been abandoned and depressed. The ones who think life is over.

Hope is not dead.

God exists.

He loves YOU.

Peace & Blessings

Ashley

~*~ Leave a Legacy That Will Make a Difference in the World Around You.~*~