We see hope as a weak, delicate thing because we view it as a wish, a desire, something we want to happen...but we are rarely certain. God offers us something more substantial. Hope is a certainty in the present and a firm expectation for the future rooted in God's faithfulness and trustworthiness. It doesn't depend on our desires or wishes or even circumstances. It comes directly from Him: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope" (Romans 15:13,). We are not left to worry and wish and struggle in troubled times. Instead, we can be confident in God who is extremely trustworthy.
Psalm 33:16-22:"The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue. Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine. Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us,even as we hope in you"
What do you gain when you look to God for your hope?
· you have a reason to praise (Psalm 71:14);
· you can rejoice even when things aren't going well (Romans 12:12);
· you will find your strength renewed (Isaiah 40:31) and
· you will have stability, confidence and an "anchor for your soul" (Hebrews 6:17-19).
There are many things that make us feel or believe that our situation or the problems we face are hopeless. But what we feel or believe does not change the character or work of God.
He remains the same: loving, powerful, compassionate, trustworthy, faithful, unfailing.
He just asks you to trust Him with the hopelessness you feel. Bring those troubles to God in prayer and ask Him to show you the hope He offers. Maybe you need to put your trust in Him, not in other things. The great part is that He'll help.
Happy Holidays
(0455) 27 Dec 2007