“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.“ (Romans 5:5, NIV)
I saw a political bumper sticker the other day that actually made me laugh. Picture a typical political endorsement but instead of the politician’s name it read “Giant Meteor 2016.” Underneath it said “Just end it already.” When you prefer a meteor instead of the two presidential candidates in the race, you might say you’ve lost all hope.
Hope. What is it?
Most of us can’t really define the term. We might use the words “wish” or “desire” as synonyms. Used in a sentence we might say: “I hope Tony Romo can stay healthy this season…”
The Bible uses this term constantly – but with a very different understanding of hope than ours. In biblical terms, “hope” describes an expectation. If you’ll join us this Sunday, Jeremiah gives us a great example in chapter 32 (make sure your read it ahead of time!). The message will encourage you.
The idea of expectation is what the Psalmist means when he says: “You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.“ (Psalm 119:114, NIV). When our hope is in God and his promises, we can expect them to be carried out. If he says it, we can count on it.
So if you or someone you know is hoping for a meteor, or you’re going through challenging circumstances, turn to God. Don’t put your hope in anyone or anything else. Put your hope in him!
I’ll see you in church!
