We don’t hope for what we already have or presently see because hope relates to what is to come and we are called upon to await it with patience. (Romans 8:24-25) However, we can presently live in the sphere of hope in a manner giving rise to rejoicing.
In his letter to Christians at Rome, Paul encouraged. . .
“(1)Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (2) Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (3) Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, (4) and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, (5) and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:1-5 ESV)
Hope has to do with a forward focus in spite of the present. Because of our faith in God, we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God’s power and faithfulness to ultimately bring us to the eternal glory He has in store for us and to which He continues leading us onward and upward as we surrender to His Sovereign Will. With this glory in mind, we can presently rejoice even in the sufferings which provide opportunity for continued growth and maturing through the development of endurance and character which bring us around again to a focus of hope. Because this hope is anchored in the loving faithfulness of God, there is no shame in holding to it! May we be encouraged by the sphere of God’s hope encompassing our life presently and leading to eternal glory with Him!
Have a great day ENCIRCLED BY THE HOPE OF GOD!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
