Introduction
In a world often fraught with uncertainty, despair, and challenges, the concept of hope shines as a beacon of light, guiding individuals through the darkest of times. For Christians, hope is not merely an abstract notion, but a tangible reality rooted in their faith in Christ Jesus.
In this blog post, we will explore the profound significance of hope in Jesus Christ, drawing upon biblical scriptures and personal reflections.
(This picture is a little reminder that, as long as you are breathing, as long as God Has given you another chance to see another day, then there is still hope.)
What is Hope
In the Bible, hope is often described as a confident expectation or anticipation of something good to come, particularly in relation to God’s promises. It’s a firm belief that God will fulfill His promises, even if the fulfillment is not immediately evident.
Throughout the Bible, hope is portrayed as an anchor for the soul (Hebrews 6:19), something that believers can hold onto amidst trials and tribulations. It’s seen as a source of encouragement and strength in times of uncertainty, reminding believers of the faithfulness and goodness of God.
Hebrews 6:19 (NKJV)
“ This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil,
Hope, also as defined by the apostle Paul in the book of Romans, is described as “the confident expectation of what God has promised, and its strength is in His faithfulness”
Romans 8:24-25 (NKJV)
24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
This definition encapsulates the essence of hope in Jesus Christ—it is a steadfast trust in the promises of God, even in the face of adversity.
Our Source of Hope
Central to the Christian faith is the belief that Jesus Christ is the ultimate source of hope. In the gospel of John, Jesus declares,
John 8:12 (NKJV)
“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
From the above verse we can see how Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection represent the epitome of hope, a kind of hope that conquers sin, death, and despair.
Furthermore, in scriptures we see how Apostle Peter emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ to our hope when he writes on,
1 Peter 1:3 (NKJV)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Through His resurrection, Jesus secured for believers a living hope—a hope that transcends the temporal and extends into eternity. This living hope is not based on wishful thinking or human effort but on the unshakable foundation of Christ’s redemptive work on the cross.
As the hymn writer Edward Mote penned, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
Throughout the Bible, numerous accounts attest to the unwavering hope that believers found in God’s promises. Today we are going to look at Abraham as an example of someone who stood firm in hope believing that whatever God Has promised, He would surely do it.
As an example, today we are going to look at the story of Abraham, who many know as a father of faith. Abraham, who against all odds, believed in God’s promise that he would have descendants as numerous as the stars
Genesis 15:5 (NKJV)
Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be.”
When God appeared to Abraham to give him that promise, he and his wife were so old in age and in todays’s world we could say Sarah already passed the age bearing period. Despite all these, Abraham clung to hope, and chose to believe God completely despite of what their bodies were going through.
The story of Abraham resonates well with a lot of people, especially those who are believing God for the fruit of the womb. We all know that the waiting period is one of the toughest because many of us are not patient enough and it is very easy to lose hope while waiting. Hopelessness can come with a lot of disappointment and discouragement even from the closest people around us.
Have you been trusting God for the fruit of the womb and it seems like it is taking forever? Is it a business or a project that seem not to work out every time you try and feel like giving up? Are at that point in your life and feel like nothing is going to change, all hope is gone?
I am here with good news today! It is not over yet, Don’t lose hope, we can learn from Abraham who decided to cling to hope even when there was no reason to do so, he kept hoping and believing God who is faithful to His promises
Romans 4:18 (NLT)
Even when there was no reason for hope, Abraham kept hoping—believing that he would become the father of many nations. For God had said to him, “That’s how many descendants you will have!”
And the part I like most is that, this same God who did for Abraham can do for you me and too because He is a God who does not show partiality.I want to assure you that there is still hope as long as you are still breathing, do not give up yet, God is not done with you.
We even see how God changed Abram name to Abraham before he got any child, at that point there was not any sign of Abraham becoming a father,
Genesis 17:5 (NKJV)
No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations.
That was a way of God assuring Abraham, that whatever He promised him will bring to pass. Similarly, this implies in our lives as well, our hope should be steadfast on who promised us (God), believing that what He says is true and will surely come to pass.
Hope in the Midst of Trials
While the promise of hope in Jesus Christ is immutable, the journey of faith often entails trials and tribulations. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of adversity that the reality of hope shines most brightly.
The Apostle Paul, who endured numerous hardships for the sake of the gospel, provides profound insight into the relationship between suffering and hope. In his letter to the Romans, Paul writes,
Romans 5:2-4 (NKJV)
2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Paul’s words remind us that hope is not passive but active, it is forged in the crucible of suffering and refined through perseverance. Rather than despairing in times of trial, believers are called to rejoice, knowing that God is working all things together for their good
Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
There is still hope
In the face of adversity and uncertainty, it is crucial to hold onto the unwavering belief that there is still hope. Even amidst the darkest of times, hope serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path forward and instilling courage within us to persevere. It reminds us that no matter how daunting the challenges may seem, there is always a possibility for positive change and renewal. Hope empowers us to keep pushing forward, to never surrender to despair, and to continue striving for a brighter tomorrow. It fuels resilience, enabling us to overcome obstacles with determination and resilience. When we embrace hope, we tap into a reservoir of inner strength that helps us navigate through life’s trials and tribulations, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. Do not give up yet.
Hope found in Jesus Christ stands as an unshakable foundation for anyone who believes in Him. This hope, rooted in the promises of God and secured by the redemptive work of Christ transcends circumstances, offering solace, strength, and purpose amid life’s trials.
As we journey through life, let us cling to this hope that is found in Jesus Christ, trusting in His faithfulness and provision. And may our lives bear witness to the transformative power of hope, illuminating the darkness and pointing others to the source of all hope—our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Do not give up hope, God is still writing your story
Have a blessed day!!