Hope grows from optimism.

What’s optimism?

The concept of the word optimism is found in the Latin word “optimum” meaning best. Those who are optimistic expect the best possible outcome from a situation.

It’s about looking forward.

Psychologists have spent years studying optimism to determine whether optimism is an inheritable trait, or a trait which shows up because of environment. And as in many areas, social scientists can’t decide for one theory or the other. (One book I’ve enjoyed in this area is “Breaking Murphy’s Law” )

But don’t worry.

Whether you believe you’re an optimist or not, as Christians we can look at optimism with an added view.

Hope grows while looking forward and knowing the future has possibility – not because of an individual’s strength, or environment but because the God of Hope (Romans 15:13) has all things in His hand. ALL things.

And what does hope have to do with encouragement?

Hope is a first line defense and a tool in your arsenal to add courage into your spouse. The word courage and encourage have their roots in the Latin word, “cor” which means heart.

You’re speaking HOPE to the heart when you encourage.

Inspiring with Hope isn’t the only way to encourage your spouse – there are four other aspects to encouragement:

  • Fortifying with Faith,
  • Fostering with Love,
  • Uplifting with Prayer,
  • and Supporting with Action.

 They’re all intertwined and aspects of each are unique yet repeated.


Which words of HOPE will you speak into your spouse’s heart today?

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.

Romans 15:13

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