Our Lord knows our frame, our culture, and the evil that is rampant in the earth. The woes that sin inflicts on mankind has been from the beginning, however, there are those times when that evil appears to be unstoppable. We know that the Lord will be victorious and destroy wickedness and Satan that is behind all that is rebellion.
God’s message to us in all ages is that we are to live in hope…the hope that comes from God.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (1 Peter 1:3). You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety. 19 You will lie down, with no one to make you afraid, and many will court your favor. (Job 11:18-19). The LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. (Ps.147:11). “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”(Lamentations 3:24). For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:24-25). Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. (Romans 12:12). For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:4). May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13).
What Does Hope Do For Mankind?
Hope shines brightest when the hour is darkest.
Hope motivates when discouragement comes.
Hope energizes when the body is tired.
Hope sweetens while bitterness bites.
Hope sings when all melodies are gone.
Hope believes when evidence is eliminated.
Hope listens for answers when no one is talking.
Hope climbs over obstacles when no one is helping.
Hope endures hardship when no on is caring.
Hope smiles confidently when no one is laughing.
Hope reaches for answers when no one is asking.
Hope presses toward victory when no one is encouraging.
Hope dares to give when no one is sharing.
Hope brings the victory when no one is winning.
(taken from John Maxwell, THINK ON THESE THINGS)
