Rescue: Finding God In Life's ChallengesSample

"Hope" 

What are we taught to do when storms hit? Any Christian would tell you: “Well, you pray.” True, we should pray.  We ask God for a miracle, to deliver us from our current situation. What happens when we do not see prayer bring a quick “magic wand” solution to all our pain and suffering?  When even though we pray and pray and our miracle has not been granted? Reality is, this miracle might or might not take place. And if it does, it might not be instantaneous.

So what do you say to yourself or loved ones who have not seen their miracle yet? - Those who are stuck in a hole of despair and cannot seem to climb out of it.  How do you hold on to hope when everything you have tried simply does not work and the chaos never ends? 

Is hope just a cheap promise from those who are not stuck in a dark season? That’s our question for today.

Consider Peter – He lived through the persecution and slaughter of Christians. He experienced the pain of seeing his friends imprisoned, tortured, and murdered just because they believed in their convictions and were committed to spreading the good news of God’s kingdom. He was aware of his imminent death, yet in the midst of his tumultuous reality, Hope abided in him. He writes: 

“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold” – 1 Peter 1:6 (NLV)  

Peter acknowledged his hope was not in his circumstances, but instead in loving and trusting God’s perfect plan. Peter demonstrated his deep commitment to Jesus by believing that his challenges were growing and solidifying his faith. He was able to see beyond the horizon; he knew every tear, every challenge was to fulfill God’s plan for his life and for Christianity as a whole. He was a good and faithful servant - Peter’s attitude and perseverance was pleasing to the Lord.

“So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world” - 1 Peter 1:7 (NLV)  

So hope is not a cheap promise! It is contingent on God’s perfect plan. If we trust Him then we should know every struggle will build our character, will make us stronger, deepen our faith and be used for His glory. Though hope will not make all your problems go away, be assured that it will enable you to be at peace, knowing that Jesus is with you every step of the way.