The definition of hope is a wishy washy maybe or a kind of unsure optimism? The modern idea of hope is “to wish for, to expect, but without certainty of the fulfillment; to desire very much, but with no real assurance of getting your desire.” Bible.org.
From a Biblical perspective, nothing could be further from the truth. Quite simply put, if you do not have hope, you will not have life. Hope is our anchor to God’s promises. Hold onto your hope until His promises are realized. Many scriptures in the New Testament call out examples for hope whereby God gives us the strength and peace of mind until the promise is fulfilled. We are to trust in God, receive His mercy and grace, for our forgiveness, salvation, resurrection, redemption, eternity in heaven. If God proclaims it, it is so…
So why do people continue to say ‘if you have to hope for something then you must be lacking in faith. If that was true then why does the Bible use the word hope over 130 times in 121 verses. Those who lack faith have a difficult time understanding God’s word. People who hope for something and lead a continuous disobedient life, hesitate and doubt that which they pray for may not be answered. How can God respond favorably to their prayers?
Let me provide a few Bible verses that may clarify some uncertainty.
Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Psalm 39:7, And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.
Psalms 71:5, For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Psalm 119:114, You are my hiding place and my shield, I hope in your word.
Proverbs 24:14, Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be lost.
Romans12:12, Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Hebrews 11:1, Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not yet seen.
Proverbs 3:5, Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.
My prayer for you is, “My Hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
Submitted by LRL
