“Hang in there.” “Hold on.” “Don’t give up.” Those are phrases encouraging pressing on despite what might be being presently experienced. They are words which also seem to imply there is something worth hanging on for; something better yet to come. This is the message of hope. When there is hope, there is encouragement to keep moving toward its full realization as hope has to do with what has not yet been received though patiently awaited. (Romans 8:24-25) As the challenges of life try to grip our life, are we retaining a grasp on the hope God has provided? Are we duly acknowledging there is a future for which our hanging in there will be ultimately worthwhile? Are we able to maintain a perspective that even the reality of the present challenge is not the full picture?
Remember Paul’s perspective in the midst of the challenges of his life and ministry where he stated. . .
“(8) We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; (9) persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; (10) always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10 ESV)
The struggles were real, but they were not the whole picture! There remained a power at work in and through Paul that was not from himself, but from God. (2 Corinthians 4:7) Therefore he pressed on in faith and hope!
James urged. . .
“(12) Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 ESV)
Yes, there is a victor’s crown to come, but we have not yet crossed life’s finish line. We are still in the race and so are urged to continue pressing on as we trust in what God has promised.
The writer of Hebrews also encouraged those to whom he wrote who were going through a time of great persecution. . .
“(23) Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23 ESV)
We can hold to hope because of the faithfulness of the One Who has promised eternal hope in Christ, as it is in Him the promises of God have their affirming “Yes”! (2 Corinthians 1:20) May we grow in unwavering hope in the unwavering promises of God!
Have a great day HOLDING FIRMLY TO OUR HEAVENLY HOPE!
Carl
