O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption.
–Psalm 130:7
What is hope? What does it mean for your life right now?
Hope is far more than positive thinking, wishful thinking or human optimism.
The Bible describes our hope as a living hope, a hope to live by. The hope you and I have in Jesus Christ is the hope of heaven, but it is not just for the next life. It is hope for the NOW life.
Biblical hope is a confidence based upon promises that are guaranteed by God. You and I can have hope right now:
- That God answers prayer. “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us” (1 John 5:14).
- For a new beginning. No matter how you and I fail in this life, there’s always hope for another chance. There is hope for your home, for your marriage, and for your life.
- That God will turn your suffering into victory. No matter what the circumstance or situation, God has a plan for your benefit.
- Over the fear of death. With Jesus Christ there is hope that we will never die.
Hope is not flimsy or futile. Hope is strong. And hope can build strength and confidence in your life!
BIBLICAL HOPE IS A CONFIDENCE BASED UPON PROMISES THAT ARE GUARANTEED BY GOD.
