What does the Bible say about hopelessness in salvation?

In Acts 27:14-20, we find the Apostle Paul and his companions in a dire situation where all hope of survival was taken away. This illustrates the plight of sinners who must come to the realization of their hopelessness before turning to God for salvation. Just as the men on the ship were cast into despair, so too is a lost sinner brought to the end of their self-reliance, laying aside all hope in their own righteousness. The Bible teaches that it is often in this darkness, as stated in Lamentations 3:19-20, that one recognizes their need for God's mercy and redemption. It is through recognizing our hopeless state that we can begin to see the hope that is found in Christ, who offers healing and salvation.