The actual definition of hope is “expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” But my question is, does God give us hope in our present circumstances and messy world?
Hope in Jesus for the future
1 Peter 1:3-8 says our hope is for a great inheritance, protection (present time), praise, glory, honor, salvation for our souls. He also reminds us that when we trust in Jesus Christ, we are born again (brought into God’s family). This is present and future.
Romans 8:18-27… We are promised a future glory, freedom from death and decay, no more sin or suffering, full rights as God’s children, new bodies. We will be like Christ after death and receive “His glory”.
Hope in Jesus for the Present
John 14:26-27 says peace comes from our “advocate, counselor, helper” (in the Greek), acknowledging that’s what we need.
Romans 8: 18-27 tell us He gives us help in our weakness, He knows our current state comparing us to a pregnant woman, and as she gets closer, the anticipation and expectancy grows just like in our lives. He is our voice when we don’t even know what to say or ask for, He understands our condition and fill in the gaps.
Here are some other great references if you want to read more about hope…
Psalm 130:7, Psalm 147:11, Proverbs 23:17-18, Jeremiah 29:11, Isaiah 40:31, Romans 5:1-5, Romans 12:12, Psalm 3:2-6, Romans 15:13
That just makes me conclude that it’s OK to not understand, it’s OK to not be able to put things into words… He’s got me covered. He’s got a good future planned, He loves me like a child, so I can trust Him, take it day by day knowing He’ll meet me where I am and it’s worth it!