In Touch - May 27, 2009

Hope can be defined as the desire for something good and the expectation of receiving it. Jesus Christ is the only genuine source of hope, because He alone knows what is best and has the sovereignty and power to secure its fulfillment. All other hopes are grounded on the shifting sands of circumstances beyond our control.

Each of us has expectations for the future, but these often pertain only to this earthly life. Christ promises us the “living hope” of an imperishable inheritance in heaven. Everyday desires will all fade away, but our home in heaven is eternal. This is our ultimate security and anchor when the storms of life are severe.

But how do we endure times of trial right now? Heaven can seem so far away when pain is present and there’s no relief in sight. Hope anticipates a change of circumstances for the better.

And what about times when our situation is not improving—then, what is God doing that is “better”? Peter tells us He is refining our faith, which will result in praise and glory when Jesus returns. This is more valuable to us than gold or even relief from our distress. What a paradox! The difficulties which cause us to lose hope are the tools the Lord uses to increase our faith and hope in Him.

Christ promises us hope not only for eternity, but also for this life. Those times that God does not deliver us from difficulty, we can be sure He is doing a greater work within us. When we finally reach our eternal home, we’ll recognize the immeasurable value of the faith He produced in us as we kept our hope in Him. 

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Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. © 2009 All Rights Reserved.