Reflections On HopeSample

The revelation of the gospel is that we were included in the greatest step of faith and obedience that Jesus Christ has taken in His death and resurrection. We died with Christ, but we also were raised up with Christ into a new life.

To be a follower of Jesus Christ is not about having a better life, but we are followers of Christ because we have a better hope! Our new life in Christ is infused with hope.

This passage talks about this hope that was the outcome of the good news and how it encouraged believers to be transformed in their minds, affecting their actions, and the fruit was that their faith in God was immovable and their love for one another was contagious.

We live in a time where people are spiritually lost and experience pain in so many areas of their lives. What is the answer then for the brokenness of our society?

We, the body of Christ, the church, are the answer! The deepening of our faith in God and our compassionate love for one another can affect the lostness and pain of people in our society.

The question is, does your faith reflect and declare the lordship of Jesus Christ in every area of your life? Does your love for people move you from a place of concern, to a place of compassion?

This means that we have to sacrifice some of our own man-made plans and desires and put God first.

This means that we move into action to address the pain and need of people around us.

This means that we live beyond ourselves.

Be encouraged not just by the good news that transformed the individuals in this passage, but also the good news of the faith, love and hope of the individuals that were spreading so much that it was recorded in this magnificent letter from Paul the Apostle.