Hope.
So many in the world long for hope, but what is it really?
Hope is elusive. Hope is mysterious. Hope is powerful. Hope is that thing, that small thing, that at first is just a glimmer. It’s a spark inside of you that burns brighter and brighter until whole nations can rise up and become new and free because of something that started as a mere glimmer.
At least that is the world’s definition of hope, or part of it. The world’s other definition of hope is that it is simply an idea. A thing that may persuade a weaker mind, but those who are realists know that the”power” of hope is actually human action taking form.
I do think hope is real and powerful. I do not think it is elusive or mysterious though. Hope is freely offered by God to those who choose to accept it, but it is a package deal. Real hope rests in the salvation that comes through Jesus Christ by the power of God the Father. Real hope is eternal hope.
Christians know that eternal hope means that no matter what happens here on earth, God is victorious. That despite our circumstances, our salvation is assured. That heaven is our home and we will one day be there in glory.
But I think we often times get stuck on the idea that hope is synonymous with heaven. That idea is not wrong, but it is not exclusive either. Because I also believe that God has meant for us to live with hope on earth. He has meant for us to hope that we will see God move in the land of the living. To hope that we will see Him perform miracles around us, and, dare I say it?, through us.
Our God is the God of Power. Miracles. Healing. Love. Grace. Freedom. And He is the God of Hope.
So, take bold steps of faith. Pray courageous prayers. Sacrifice everything for Him, all because of hope. And just like eternal hope means we are assured of salvation and of heaven, it also means that we are assured of all that God is and all that God does.
When I pray over my future there is marked difference between when I pray with this assured hope of God and when I pray with the world’s idea of a wishful hope. The worldly hope leaves me anxious and unsure, standing on the shaky foundation of an elusive mystery.
But when I pray with the assured hope of God, I trust that I will see His greatness in the Land of the Living. This is the difference in fully understanding what His hope means.
This is the importance of being hopeful.
