Our capacity to hope distinguishes us from all creation, but it also promotes our purpose in Christ. For without our hope in the gospel we are reduced to an anxious state of surviving, rather than raised to an abundant life that’s thriving (John 10:10).

As Martin Luther King, Jr. wisely stated, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Although loss & struggles will always reside this side of heaven, these same conflicts provide us the opportunities to be conquerers through Christ (Romans 8:37). Are circumstances currently testing your hope? The Gospel offers three reminders to help supply its restoration:

It Reassures: Do events in your life have you discouraged, pressed down & stressed out? The Word of God reassures us that our efforts are never in vain & that through Christ we can endure & even flourish (1 Corinthians 15:8)! Thankfully, all trials are temporary – our hope in God’s truth is everlasting.

It Sets Roots: The storms of life offer opportunities for our faith to be tested, tried & applied, and the gospel of Christ offers our only firm foundation. He empowers us to remain fruitful despite our circumstances which in turn provides encouragement to others, strengthens our faith & grows His church (Jeremiah 17:7-8).

It Rescues: God never abandons His children & nothing, not even death can separate us from His love. For He promises to never leave, or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He is with us always & in every situation. Have we been trying to seek security, or rescue in our education, our careers, our relationships, or even our possessions? Nothing on earth can accomplish this – only Jesus.

Application: “Redeemed For Rescue” – Acts 20:24
Without faith & hope our struggles are without purpose, or meaning, and our cries are reduced to nothing more than the howls of an animal. Praise God that in Christ, we know we have an intercessor, who hears our cries & meets our needs (Psalm 34:17)! For we are never alone, or without hope. We are here for a reason & our purpose is not for ourselves, but to allow our lives to be used to expose as many as possible to the truth of Jesus & the miracle of His rescue in all we do. Who might we be able to share this hope with today?

by Dagan Sharpe @ CareerCall.wordpress.com