More Than a Momनमुना

Live in Hope

I wish I could tell my younger self that God takes care of His people. His plan is good, perfect, and always on time. I’d also tell my younger self that life is full of mysteries, and we’ll never get full answers to suffering on this side of heaven. What we do know, as believers, is the best is yet to come.

Still, hope can feel non-existent during times of loss and in our culture of negativity. Through both media and pop culture, we see no light at the end of the tunnel, no purpose behind the pain, and no hope for the future. If we believe this, then we’ll live in despair. We’ll stay stuck in hopeless places. But through Jesus, God births HOPE. He shines a light that conquers darkness and death.

A Christian’s hope boils down to three key words: He is risen. Seeing the world through this framework changes everything. Without Jesus, hope depends on our circumstances. With Jesus, hope eclipses our circumstances.

Life on earth feels permanent, yet really, it is fleeting. Our real home is in heaven, and the ache in your heart that never goes away, that earthly joys and blessings can only temporarily quench, is really a longing for heaven. God created you to crave Him, and He placed eternity in your heart as a homing device to draw you home toward Him. Feeling dissatisfied with this world reminds us all that we were made for more. We are walking toward our final destination, where perfect peace, love, and joy exist.

Living in hope makes any pain you feel bearable. It reminds you to not discount the season you are in or believe it is a waste. Regardless of what happens today, tomorrow is a new day. Run toward Jesus and keep your eyes on the prize that awaits you on the other side.

Respond

How does hope impact your response to trials today?

What is life like without hope? Have you ever wrestled in that dark place?

If tomorrow is a new day, how can you use it to glorify God?

Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the promise of eternal life. I’m grateful for this lifeline that is bigger than any trial. As a work-in-progress, I need guidance every day. Help me start each day by running toward Jesus and what He has planned on the other side. Amen.