In Christ...Are You Hopeful or Wishful?

"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."   -Desmond Tutu

One of the greatest commodities in the world is hope. It isn't bought, sold, or exchanged; yet it is priceless. Even so, there are no requirements or stipulations attached to it. It is freely available to one and all.

The word "hope" is used many times in the Bible, and for good reason. It is considered an essential and fundamental element of Christian life. (1 Peter 3:15; Hebrews 10:23). However, many can, and do, confuse hope with wishes or desires.

Let's take a look at where the confusion might lie. With hope there is some expectation of acquiring a benefit or advantage, or the possibility of securing it. Therefore, hope always produces happiness or contentment.

Whereas, with wishes and and desires there is a certain element of pain and/or anxiety attached to it. Compare both of these to your relationship with Jesus Christ. Is your relationship based on hope or wishes/desires? (Hebrews 3:6)

John Piper says this about hope: "Darkness comes. In the middle of it, the future looks blank. The temptation to quit is huge. Don't. You are in good company... You will argue with yourself that there is no way forward. But with God, nothing is impossible. He has more ropes and ladders and tunnels out of pits than you can conceive. Wait. Pray without ceasing. Hope."

When rough times in life appear, and the outlook is bleak, would you place your hope in Christ to see you through; or would you just wish for things to get better? Your answer says a lot about your relationship with Him (Psalm 71:14).

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:7; Ephesians 3:6; Philippians 3:12; Colossians 1:5; 2 Thessalonians 2:16

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me to walk in your light, and live every day in faith and glory, amen

Love and blessings,

Simone