Hope for a Lifetime

Is hope just looking on the bright side, expecting the best rather than fearing the worst? That depends on what or in whom we place our hope. At one time or another, we have placed our confidence in things that have disappointed us. It may have been in a job, a spouse or even our own abilities. Hope in those things may or may not be justified, but hope in God is more than just idle optimism.
"Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off." (Proverbs 23:18) Without hope, life is empty and pointless. God loves us and sent Jesus to die for our sins so that we would have hope for the future. Hope lifts a person's spirits, giving a reason to work, to live. No longer do we have to trust in our own ability, in the goodness of those around us or on material possessions to satisfy our desires.

Paul wrote in Romans 15:13, "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." The God of Hope sent His son to be our Savior and our Hope. God created the universe and He holds the future in His hand. Therefore, hope in Him is never futile. It is an anchor for our souls, securing us through the storms of life.

"Show me Your ways, O Lord, teach me Your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long." Psalm 25:4,5

In these changing days we need to discern His ways for us. Ask God to help you put your hope in Him, not just occasionally but each day, all day long.