What is hope?

We hear the word hope all the time. "I hope he calls." "I hope the pizza will get here soon." "I hope I get a raise this year." The hope we usually talk about is more about wishing or wanting. There is a level of uncertainty involved. Sometimes it approaches fantasy with no expectation of it happening. We use the word hope carelessly and thoughtlessly.

Sometimes we use hope in more serious situations. "This new treatment is his only hope." "I hope the baby is healthy." Even when it is serious, there is still a level of uncertainty.

The worst situations in our lives are when things are hopeless. There is no expectation of things getting better. There is no expectation that your needs will be met. The feeling of hopelessness is one of the worst feelings a person can have.

God's Word uses hope differently. It is about certainty. Hope is the basis for our faith. Hope is the reason we do what we do for God. Hope causes us to love and trust. Hope is assurance that what we depend on will not fail.

Where is your hope today? In your job? In your retirement plan? In your health? I do not see much certainty there.

Is your hope in God and the great gift he gave to you? Are you hoping for the inheritance that is waiting for you in heaven? I see a lot of certainty there.

Hope you have a nice day. :-)