Can I Really Overcome?Sample

Expectant Hope

Twentieth-century atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell wrote an essay entitled Why I Am Not A Christian. He detailed the reasons for his disbelief and was an outspoken critic of faith. Near the end of his life, he was interviewed by the BBC. The reporter asked him what he had to hang onto with his death so obviously close. Russell answered, “I have nothing to hang onto but grim, unyielding despair.”

That was an honest response, but a hopeless one. You see, when we see this life as all there is, the closer we get to death, the nearer we wrestle with despair. Yet, this is not the Christian life.

Instead, we live with “earnest expectation,” which is a picturesque way to describe neck-craning anticipation. Like waiting for someone you love to arrive home on a plane, and stretching and straining to see them walk off the jet bridge. All creation exists in that state, just longing to see what God will do next.

We can truly live with expectant hope in a hopeless world. We can be beacons of light in dark nights. We can stand as a city set on a hill, with hope blazing so bright it can't be hidden (Matthew 5:14).

Christians are filled with hope because we know this isn't all there is to life.

God promises those who sow in tears shall reap in joy (Psalm 126:5). He exchanges a crown of beauty for our ashes, will give the oil of joy to those who mourn, and offers a garment of praise to those with heavy hearts (Isaiah 61:3).

So, bring hope with you wherever you go today. Take opportunities to encourage others in despair. Remember, for the Christian, there is no such thing as a hopeless situation.

We can always Hope Again.

As you engage with God’s word:

● What is God saying to you?

● What does it mean to you?

● What action step do you need to take?

After you reflect on these questions, bring everything to God in prayer.