Hope

Have you ever asked yourself where your hope resides? Do we fall into the many pitfalls of putting our hope into another human being, an object, or do we put our hope and trust in God? During a difficult time in our lives where do we find hope? During a recent devotion, I was reminded that through our tribulations we become determined to persevere, to build our character, and ultimately to find hope.

Romans 5:1-5 speaks of hope and the steps to get to hope: "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (NASB)

So many times we simply forget who is carrying us through our trials and tribulations and cry out to God wondering where He is. Once we have gotten through the trial and are able to reflect, we see that God didn't forget us or leave us but had simply carried us through; for without Him we have no hope for our future.

So where is your hope?

Elaine Campbell, MA