“Hope springs eternal in the human breast…” supports the thought that God implanted in human nature the desire for optimism not only in this life, but for eternity. Yet life’s challenges often shake our foundation of hope.
Right now you may be experiencing some difficulties that cause you to feel hopeless, and even impair your view of God’s love for you. Failure to achieve goals, unemployment, financial needs, loss of home, broken relationships, rebellious children, ill health, loss of significant loved ones, infertility issues, fear of personal harm, are some factors that impact our sense of hope. No matter how devastating or discouraging, these situations are still only temporary and relate to your present life.
God wants you to have a more lasting hope that extends beyond your present circumstances. Those who accept Jesus Christ as Savior possess that kind of hope. The Bible states that, “God in His great mercy has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” A wonderful inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade! This inheritance is kept in heaven for us (I Peter 1:3-4, NIV). Wow! This is good news and cause for celebration. Though you may have present troubles, God offers a bright future through Christ’s death on the cross, His resurrection, and the promise of His glorious return for those who believe in Him (John 14:1-3 NIV).
How do you receive this living hope? a) Admit that you are a sinner and need God’s forgiveness (Romans 3:23). b) Believe that God loves you in spite of your past life (Romans 5:8). c) Accept God’s offer of forgiveness (Romans 6:23). d) Confess your sins, and believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross in your place, and rose from the dead so that I might have new life (Romans 10:9,10).
Now build your hope and faith in God by reading and meditating on the Scriptures. The Gospel of John is a favorite of new Christ followers. Next, find a Bible teaching church and attend regularly. Tell your friends and family about your decision to follow Christ, and allow God to change the direction of your life (II Corinthians 5:17).
When you put your faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, you receive the assurance that your future life will be better (John 1:12). God becomes your Father. He controls everything, and can transform hopeless situations into valuable experiences (Romans 8:28). Praise and thank Him for His love as you grow in your relationship with Him. We pray “the God of hope will fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13, NIV).
If you need further assistance in finding hope, or to request prayer, please call the church at (954) 438-5604.
