The Power of Our Spoken “Yet”
In response to the daily forecast, my husband is always quick to remind me that regardless of any predicted rain, there is also yet the chance for sunshine.
What is he doing? He’s choosing to magnify what could be despite what seems likely. And this is the power of our spoken yet.
Although a small, seemingly insignificant word, “yet” is actually a powerful word. And when believed and released, it can radically transform our outlook and perception.
But most significantly, it is through our spoken “yet” that we are enabled to see beyond uncertainties and improbabilities to the reality of God’s promises.
A Biblical Perspective of “Yet”
From a biblical perspective, our spoken “yet" is grounded in faith and tethered to God who makes all things, even impossible things, possible.
At the same time, we must understand the following critical truths regarding our spoken “yet”.
Our spoken “yet” does not deny facts or present reality. Instead, it expresses hope in God despite the challenges and pains of life.
Our spoken “yet” leans into healthy lamenting, acknowledging our suffering and sorrow while still declaring our trust in God.
Our spoken “yet” is inspired by God’s consistent faithfulness, goodness and love.
And finally, our spoken “yet” is not a formula guaranteeing we get whatever we want. Rather, our spoken “yet” surrenders to God's wisdom, sovereignty and will, knowing His ways and plans are higher than our own.
The Connection to Hope
One of the most outstanding results of our spoken “yet” is that it connects us to hope—and this is no small matter. You see, it is hope that equips us to endure, persevere, and journey faithfully forward even in the bleakest, gravest, most distressing of times. And this is so clearly evidenced in the words of the Prophet Jeremiah during an incredibly dark time in Israel’s history.
Jeremiah writes, “My suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss” (Lamentations 3:19-20).
We simply can’t glance over these gut-wrenching words spoken by a man in horrible anguish.
Even so, despite Jeremiah’s personal pain, he chose to remember God’s faithfulness. And because of this, he was empowered to declare one of the most beloved, “yet” statements in all of Scripture.
“Yet, I still dare to hope when I remember the faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.” Lamentations 3:21-22 NLT
Jesus said, in this world we will all have troubles. Yet, He was also clear in saying we should take heart because He had overcome the world (John 16:33). This means He has already overcome every trial, every heartache, every discouragement and every problem you and I will ever face. And because of this, we too like the Prophet Jeremiah, can honestly express our feelings, acknowledge our challenges, and yet remember our God—our good, faithful, merciful, compassionate God who is with us, for us and loves us.
So perhaps today, or sometime this week, spend time acknowledging your current challenges and disappointments. And then, as an act of your will, choose to release a powerful “yet” statement of your own.
Pray
Father God, I am so grateful that You see, know and love me. Life can be hard and is often hurtful, painful and disappointing. And yet, You are with me, comforting, guiding and continually reminding me I am not alone. And for this reason, and infinitely more, I praise you. Amen.
Reflect
In what ways have you been able to connect to hope in your own life, by choosing to declare “yet” over your challenges and disappointments?
Encourage others with your response to this week’s question HERE or in the Comments section below.