Standing Firm in Hope

Introduction

People typically use the word hope to express a wish or a desire: “I hope you feel better” or “I’m hoping for a better job.” Sometimes they even tie it to positive thinking, as if wishing hard enough can make their desire come true. Yet, ultimately, this kind of hope is rooted in uncertainty because no one can be sure of what will happen in this life.

The hope found in the Bible, however, stands distinct. Instead of mere wishes or optimism, the biblical writers describe unwavering confidence grounded in God Himself, assured by Christ, and sealed by the Holy Spirit.

Although many of God’s promises are still to come, their rock-solid certainty makes all the difference for those who are waiting on the Lord.

In today’s study, you will unpack the unique nature of biblical hope and discover why it is worth waiting for.

Excerpt From Jesus Calling®

Waiting, trusting, and hoping are intricately connected, like golden strands interwoven to form a strong chain. Trusting is the central strand because it is the response from My children that I desire the most. Waiting and hoping embellish the central strand and strengthen the chain that connects you to Me. Waiting for Me to work, with your eyes on Me, is evidence that you really do trust Me. If you mouth the words “I trust You” while anxiously trying to make things go your way, your words ring hollow. Hoping is future-directed, connecting you to your inheritance in heaven. However, the benefits of hope fall fully on you in the present.

Because you are Mine, you don’t just pass time in your waiting. You can wait expectantly, in hopeful trust. Keep your “antennae” out to pick up even the faintest glimmer of My Presence.

Dwell

In Romans 8:18–25, the apostle Paul exhorts you to hold fast to faith, especially when challenges and hardships arise. Faith points you to God’s promises; hope gives you joyful expectation of His fulfilled word. Faith lays the foundation; hope builds on it, urging you to patiently endure trials and delays. When you belong to Christ, “you don’t just pass time in your waiting.” Rather, you find that “you can wait expectantly, in hopeful trust.”

Application Questions

1. What things in your life have caused you to question whether God is working through them for your good? Pray over this list and ask God the Father to confidently and patiently strengthen your hope as He conforms you to the image of His Son. (See Romans 8:28–30)
2. List some examples of how the Lord’s compassions are new every morning. Take some time to be honest with Him and to thank Him for today’s compassions. (See Lamentations 3:19–23)
3. How convinced are you that the Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him? What evidence do you have? (See Lamentations 3:24–25)