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PowerPoint - Nov. 14, 2008

For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.

--Romans 8:22-23

Here’s an understatement—we live in a world in pain because of sin. There is plenty of evidence that as Romans 8:22 says “creation has been groaning.”

Stress, violence, hatred, wars, disease, and tragedies are all over the news. So, is there any hope for a world like this?

Even Christians groan according to our Scripture verse today! Why? You and I are still members of a fallen race, living in a fallen place!

But today, maybe you’re not thinking about the hopelessness of the world. Maybe you’re wondering, “Is there any hope for me?”

If you are suffering and hurting, God has a prescription for your pain. He has a medicine of hope! You and I may not have any hope in our world today. But we can find hope in the world to come.

We have hope because of the promise that Jesus has given us. You and I have the hope of the redemption of our body and of living in God’s presence forever in joy and peace.

YOU AND I MAY NOT HAVE ANY HOPE IN OUR WORLD TODAY. BUT WE CAN FIND HOPE IN THE WORLD TO COME.