***To find the companion guide for kids with the Elf on the Shelf, click here*
Week 1 *HOPE* Purple Candle
The Science of Hope
Scientists have discovered that HOPE is a protector of the brain. After the trauma we’ve collectively experienced over the past couple of years, our brains have worked hard searching for hope in order to protect us from anxiety.
There is evidence that hope comes from a physical location in the brain. God created hope within us. He made a physical spot for hope.
Because He knows we all have something to hope for.
This week, we will be diving deeper into the topic of hope and, specifically, the hope we have because of Jesus.
If you find yourself feeling hopeless this week, try to take those thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) and access the hope that you already have knit into your brain by the God who created you and created HOPE itself for you (Psalm 71:5).
Among older adults, higher levels of hope are associated with lower mortality rates compared to people who feel hopelessness. Those of us who hope in Jesus already know that hope is life-saving, but scientists are now proving it for everyone else!
2 CORINTHIANS 10:5 WE DEMOLISH ARGUMENTS AND EVERY HIGH-MINDED THING THAT IS RAISED UP AGAINST THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD, TAKING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE TO OBEY CHRIST.
Science has discovered that most people’s brains anticipate positive experiences. Psychologists agree that distress can interrupt the anticipation process and cause anxiety.
Wouldn’t we all love to avoid distress? Scripture tells us that we must take every thought captive. When our anticipation of what is good is interrupted by anxious thoughts, worry, or even legitimate trauma, we must take those thoughts captive and focus on the hope Jesus provides for all of us.
As we look ahead to December 25th when we get to celebrate that the Lord has come to earth to save us all, let us take captive every thought that tries to interrupt our anticipation of being with Him in Heaven.
When the world tries to tell us that the “holiday season” is merely about decorations and meals and gifts, let us take those thoughts captive.
Let us be captivated with the HOPE we can be certain of in Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection.
