The following are my notes taken during my pastor's sermon.

At times, Jesus-followers may feel helpless, but they are never hopeless.

How to Stay Hopeful

The scripture passage from this Bible study is Romans 5:1-5. 

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 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 5:1-5

Verse 1:  We have peace.

Verse 2:  We have hope in the glory of God.

Verses 3-4:  Trouble always has a purpose in our lives.  Hey, when we crush olives, we get oil.

Verse 5:  Hope does not disappoint.

Image Credit - Diana Simumpande - CCO Public Domain Image - via Freely Photos

How to Stay Hopeful

1.  Stay in the scriptures.  

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12

2.  Stay connected with other believers.

And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. - Hebrews 10:24-25

3.  Stay intentional as a Jesus-follower. 

But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence. - 1 Peter 3:15

4.  Stay focused on eternity.

Looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus. - Titus 2:13

But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. - 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)