Living in Hope

Life rarely transpires as simply as we hope it will. Nothing is ever easy. Something usually goes wrong that rearranges our plans and causes stress, confusion and sometimes even depression.

However, placing our hope in God keeps us from experiencing disappointment, because the love of God fills our heart to overflowing, and His Spirit abides within us to comfort and to direct us (Ephesians 3:16-19; Romans 5:5).

If we have the courage not to give up, and if we hope only in the Lord, then God will strengthen our heart (Galatians 6:9; 1 Corinthians 15:19-26). Daily, God prompts us to learn from our past mistakes and to meet each pure, fresh day with renewed enthusiasm.

If we will devote our life to our Living Savior, yearn for intimacy and union with Him, turn from the sin that presents itself to us through the flesh and the devil and the world, we can lift up our face to the Lord, standing firm without fear (Job 11:13-15).

We view trouble and trials as water that flows through our life. They become distant memories that brought us closer to our loving Heavenly Father. He makes our days brighter than the sun at noon, and our darkest night shines like the morning sunrise (Job 11:16-17).

We find our security from Him, and we place our hope only in the Lord. This allows us to rest in the safety of the shadow of His wings. No one can cause us to fear, and everyone will be drawn to Christ in us (Job 11:18-19; Psalm 91:4).

Prayer:
Father God, You did not promise us tomorrow, but You inspire us with Your hope throughout our day. Your hope sheds light on our path, cheers us on our way, and grows brighter even if our circumstances darken. You also use us to aid others along life’s way, as we empathize with their discouragement, and show compassion for them in their trials.

Remind us to share Bible verses with them, which lightened our heart; so that we can encourage them in their pursuit of holiness and dedication to Your plans for their life. This will teach them the wisdom that we learned when we walked through trials that are similar to theirs. Please keep Your eye on those of us who hope in Your mercy. Remind us that our ultimate hope rests in living both now and for eternity with You (Colossians 1:27).

Thought for the Day:

Sometimes, we wallow in a hopeless cesspool of gloom, and only the mercy of God gives us the hope that we need to climb out of the dark pit of self-pity, which we dig for our self; living our life in Christ gives us the security of His love, and His hope as our eternal strength.

- Colossians 3:3-4