Tag Archives: Hope in Christ

Faith

Jesus Brings Life to Dead Hopes

When Jesus arrived in Bethany, He was met with sorrow and despair. Lazarus, His dear friend, had been in the tomb for four days. To Martha and Mary, it seemed too late. Their hope had faded, and they believed death had the final word. Yet in the midst of their grief, Jesus declared a truth that transcends time and circumstance: “I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in Me will live even if he dies” (John 11:25 AMP).

Jesus calls us to believe, even when our hopes seem dead. This is a common thread throughout Scripture. When Sarah laughed at the thought of bearing a child in her old age, God asked, “Is anything too difficult for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14 AMP). When Ezekiel stood in the valley of dry bones, God commanded him to prophesy life into what was lifeless, and the bones came alive by the power of God (Ezekiel 37:1-14). Over and over, the Bible reminds us that God specializes in reviving what seems beyond hope.

Martha, like many of us, struggled to reconcile her faith with her circumstances. She believed Jesus could have healed her brother before his death, but she doubted what He could do now. Yet Jesus gently reminded her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe [in Me], you will see the glory of God?” (John 11:40 AMP). In Isaiah 55:8-9, God declares, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways… For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts” (AMP). God’s timing is not our timing, but His timing is perfect.

When Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, He demonstrated that He is not bound by time, death, or human limitations. Just as He brought life to Lazarus, He can breathe life into your circumstances. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 3:20 that God “is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us”(AMP).

Jesus is asking you to trust Him. He is saying to you what He said to Jairus when his daughter was on the brink of death: “Do not be afraid; only believe [in Me and My power]”(Mark 5:36 AMP). Even when all seems lost, when time has passed, and when the situation appears final, God can still do anything.

Roll away the stone of fear, doubt, and unbelief. Trust that the same God who brought life to dry bones, raised Lazarus, and fulfilled His promises to Sarah can bring new life to the areas of your life that feel dead. His glory will shine when you place your hope in Him.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I thank You that nothing is too difficult for You. When my hopes feel dead and Your timing feels delayed, help me to believe that You are still working. Breathe life into my circumstances as You did with Lazarus, Sarah, and the dry bones in Ezekiel’s vision. Teach me to trust that Your ways are higher than mine and Your timing is always perfect. May I hold fast to Your truth and see Your glory revealed in my life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Faith

Fix Your Eyes on the Eternal Glory

Beloved, do not lose heart. From the very beginning, God revealed humanity’s need for redemption. Genesis 3 recounts the fall of man, when sin and restlessness entered the world. Yet, even in that moment, God promised salvation, declaring that the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15). This promise points to Christ, who redeems and renews our hearts, offering eternal hope and eternal glory in Christ through His victory on the cross.

“Therefore we do not become discouraged [spiritless, disappointed, or afraid]. Though our outer self is [progressively] wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day by day. For our momentary, light distress (this passing trouble) is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure [surpassing all comparisons, a transcendent splendor and an endless blessedness]! So we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are unseen; for the things which are visible are temporal [just brief and fleeting], but the things which are invisible are everlasting and imperishable.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, AMP)

Trials and struggles can feel overwhelming, but they serve a purpose far greater than we can imagine. Romans 8:18 reminds us, “For I consider [from the standpoint of faith] that the sufferings of the present life are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us and in us.” This momentary affliction shapes us for the glory to come—a glory that will never fade. Our hope lies in Eternal Glory in Christ.

God calls us to lift our eyes beyond the temporary and focus on His eternal promises. Jesus Himself declared in Mark 1:15, “The [appointed period of] time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life] and believe [with a deep, abiding trust] in the good news [regarding salvation].” His words remind us that God’s kingdom is here and now, inviting us to trust Him fully and live with eternity in view. In this way, we find Eternal Glory in Christ.

Take heart, for Christ has already secured the victory. Paul proclaims in Colossians 2:15, “When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public example of them [exhibiting them as captives in His triumphal procession], having triumphed over them through the cross.” Jesus conquered sin and death, breaking the chains of the enemy and securing our freedom. Galatians 3:13 echoes this truth: “Christ purchased our freedom and redeemed us from the curse of the Law and its condemnation by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs [crucified] on a tree (cross).’”

Beloved, God does not waste your pain. Each trial works within you to produce an eternal weight of glory beyond anything this world can offer. James 1:2-4 encourages us, “Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance; and let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.” This process ultimately leads to Eternal Glory in Christ.

Fix your eyes not on what is seen but on God’s unseen, eternal promises. Even when your body grows weary, His Spirit renews you daily. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; they will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.” Trust in the Lord, knowing He is faithful to complete the good work He began in you (Philippians 1:6).

Do not be discouraged by what is fleeting. Instead, place your hope in what is eternal. Trust God’s promises, lean into His strength, and let His Word guide you. The trials you face are not meaningless; they are shaping you for eternity. Live boldly in the victory Christ secured and rest in the hope of His unchanging Word and Eternal Glory in Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your eternal promises and our hope in Jesus. Teach us to fix our eyes on what is unseen, trusting in Your faithfulness and rejoicing in the glory to come. Strengthen our hearts during trials and remind us that You work all things for our good and Your glory. Renew us daily by Your Spirit, Lord, and draw us closer to You. May we reflect Your kingdom and bring glory to Your name in all we do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Faith

Faith That Clings

Beloved, reflect on the faith of Jairus. He came to Jesus not just for healing but for life itself. His daughter lay at the point of death, and he knew that only the Lord could save her. He cast aside all pride and doubt, falling at Jesus’ feet and crying out for Him to come to his house. Yet, on the way, the news came that shattered any hope he might have held in the natural: “Your daughter has died. Why bother the Teacher any further?” (Mark 5:35, AMP).

How often have you felt the same? You’ve prayed, you’ve believed, but the situation has gone from bad to worse. What you hoped for seems lost. But listen to the words of Jesus to Jairus, words that still speak to you today: “Do not be afraid; only keep on believing” (Mark 5:36, AMP). Even when it seems like the promise has died, even when the delay feels endless, trust in the One who has power over death and life.

Jairus didn’t turn back. He didn’t let the news of death stop him. He clung to Jesus, walking with Him all the way to his house. His faith wasn’t just in what Jesus could do—it was in who Jesus is. This is the kind of faith you must have: a faith that clings to Jesus even when the situation seems hopeless, even when the world declares it is over.

When Jesus arrived at Jairus’ home, the mourners laughed at Him. To them, the situation was final. Death had already taken hold. But Jesus dismissed them, declaring, “The child is not dead but sleeping” (Mark 5:39, AMP). Beloved, what seems dead to you is only asleep in the hands of the Savior. When the Lord enters the house, life returns, healing flows, and restoration begins.

Even now, the Lord is coming to His house—His Church. He brings not just healing for what is broken but resurrection for what is lost. But will you walk with Him in faith? Will you trust Him even when the promise seems delayed, even when the situation appears beyond repair? The faith of Jairus calls you to cling to the Lord, to press into His presence, and to believe that His power is greater than any loss.

Pressing in Until Full Restoration

Jairus didn’t stop at the news of death, and neither should you. When the Lord enters His house, He comes to restore not partially but completely. Jairus’ daughter was not only healed; she was brought back to life. The Lord doesn’t just give back what was taken; He restores it abundantly. The thief must repay sevenfold (Proverbs 6:31), and the Lord promises to restore the years the locusts have eaten (Joel 2:25).

But restoration requires faith that presses in. Do not let go after the first sign of healing. Stay close to the Lord. Like Jairus, walk with Him all the way. Trust Him to bring life to every area where the enemy has brought death. Trust Him to restore joy, hope, and purpose. And trust Him to give abundantly more than you could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

A Call to Faith

Beloved, the Lord is coming to His house, and His presence will bring healing and restoration. But will you trust Him fully? Will you cling to Him when the promise seems delayed, when the report seems final, when hope feels lost? Do not be afraid; only keep on believing. The One who enters the house has power over every situation. He will restore everything the enemy has stolen—and more.

Let your faith rise, even in the face of death. Press into the Lord until His presence fills the house and His promises are fulfilled. Cling to Him, trust in Him, and believe that His restoration will be complete, overflowing, and abundant.

A Prayer for Faith and Restoration

Lord Jesus, we thank You for the faith of Jairus, who trusted You even when all seemed lost. Help us to cling to You in the same way, to walk with You through every delay and doubt, and to believe in Your power to restore. We invite You into Your house, Lord—into our lives, our church, and our circumstances. Bring healing where there is brokenness, life where there is death, and restoration where the enemy has stolen. We trust You for more, Lord, even to the overflow. In Your mighty name, we pray. Amen.

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Inaugurated Eschatology

Divine Tension: Living Between the Now and the Not Yet

The Divine Tension Between the Now and the Not Yet can be seen when Embracing the Overlap of the First and Second Ages.

As we navigate our journey of faith, we find ourselves living in a divine tension—a sacred overlap between the first age and the second age. This is the space where the kingdom of God has come, yet its fullness is still unfolding. Now, we are transformed by Jesus, but soon, in the second age, we will experience the complete restoration He promises.

Who We Are Without Jesus

Without Jesus, we dwell entirely in the first age—a time marked by separation from God, ensnared by sin and devoid of true purpose. We are like wanderers lost in darkness, searching for meaning in a world that cannot satisfy our deepest longings. The Apostle John reminds us:

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”
—1 John 1:8 AMP

In this state, our hearts are restless, our souls burdened, and our lives void of the hope that only Jesus can provide.

Who We Are With Jesus

But now, through the grace of Jesus, we step into the overlap of ages. Now, we are redeemed, our sins forgiven, and our relationship with God restored. We are no longer defined by our past but by the transformative power of His love. John encourages us:

“Yet to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”
—John 1:12 AMP

In this divine tension, we experience the initial fruits of salvation, empowered by the Holy Spirit to live victoriously.

Who Jesus Sees Us As

Jesus sees us not just as we are now but as who we will become in the fullness of the second age. He looks upon us with immeasurable love, recognizing our potential and destiny in Him. Now, we are His beloved; soon, we will be glorified with Him. He assures us:

“Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known.”
—1 John 3:2 AMP

Jesus sees us through the lens of His finished work on the cross, embracing us in our imperfections while guiding us toward our perfected selves.

The First Age, the Second Age, and the Overlap

We exist in a unique period—the overlap between the first age and the second age. The first age is characterized by the fall of man, sin, and death. The second age heralds the complete establishment of God’s kingdom, where righteousness, peace, and joy prevail. Now, we live in this overlap, experiencing both the struggles of the first age and the promises of the second.

This divine tension challenges us but also fills us with hope. We witness glimpses of God’s kingdom—healing, transformation, and miracles—yet we also confront the realities of a broken world. The Apostle John witnessed this overlap firsthand, sharing visions of the coming glory while ministering in a world that had not yet fully embraced Christ.

The “Now and Not Yet”

Now, we are saved, but we are also being saved. Now, we have eternal life, but we await its fullest expression. This is the “Now and Not Yet” of our faith. We have received the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of what is to come, but we anticipate the day when we will see Jesus face to face. John assures us:

“We know that when Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.”
—1 John 3:2 AMP

The “Soon and Not Yet”

Soon, in the second age, we will experience the complete fulfillment of God’s promises. The pain and suffering of this world will cease, and we will dwell in unbroken fellowship with our Creator. Jesus promises:

“Yes, I am coming soon.”
—Revelation 22:20 AMP

Now, we persevere through trials, but soon, we will rejoice in everlasting peace.

Embracing the Divine Tension

Dear reader, do you feel the pull between the now and the not yet? This divine tension is not a burden but an invitation to deeper faith. Now, we are called to live as ambassadors of the coming age, reflecting Jesus in all we do. We can embrace this tension by:

  • Living with Purpose: Knowing that our present actions have eternal significance.
  • Holding onto Hope: Trusting in God’s promises for the future.
  • Walking in Love: Demonstrating the character of Jesus to a world in need.

Now, we may face challenges, but soon, we will experience the fullness of joy in His presence. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, embracing the divine tension as we journey toward the glorious future He has prepared for us.

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Peace

Anchored in Peace and Hope: God’s Work in Your Life

Introduction

Dear friend, as you navigate the ups and downs of life, there’s something deeply important that I want you to know: God is at work in your life, even now. His presence is not distant or unreachable. Instead, it’s a living, active force that’s guiding, shaping, and sustaining you. In this message, we’ll explore the peace and hope that God offers and how you can experience His work in your life every day.

Understanding God’s Peace in Your Life

One of the greatest gifts God offers is His peace. This peace isn’t dependent on circumstances; it’s a deep, abiding presence that remains steady regardless of what storms you may face. Jesus, who knows you better than anyone else, promises you this peace. He says, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).

Think about that for a moment. This peace isn’t a fleeting feeling; it’s a constant state of calm and assurance that comes from knowing you’re in God’s hands. Whether you’re going through difficult times or just the everyday stresses of life, this peace is available to you. Jesus has already overcome the world, and in Him, you can find rest for your weary soul.

The Power of Hope Anchored in Christ

But God doesn’t just offer peace—He also offers hope. This hope is not just a wishful thought; it’s a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God. In Romans 5:5, the Apostle Paul reminds us, “Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

This hope is unshakeable, even when life feels uncertain. It’s an anchor for your soul, keeping you steady and secure. No matter what the future holds, know this: God holds your future. He has plans for you—good plans filled with hope and purpose. This hope is for today, for this very moment. Hebrews 6:19 assures us, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”

Recognizing God’s Work in Your Life

You may wonder what God is doing in your life, especially during tough times. The truth is, God is always at work. He’s shaping you, refining you, and leading you into the fullness of life He has planned for you. It may not always be easy to see, but trust that He is with you every step of the way, offering His peace and filling you with His hope.

If you’ve never fully opened your heart to God, or if you’re feeling distant from Him, now is the perfect time to reconnect. God is waiting with open arms, ready to embrace you, to fill you with His love, and to give you a hope that will never fade.

How to Experience God’s Peace and Hope Daily

Experiencing God’s peace and hope daily is about building a relationship with Him. Here are a few practical steps you can take:

  1. Spend Time in Prayer: Prayer is your direct line to God. Share your worries, hopes, and dreams with Him. Ask Him to fill you with His peace and hope.
  2. Read and Meditate on Scripture: God’s Word is filled with promises of peace and hope. Scriptures like John 14:27 and Romans 5:5 can offer comfort and encouragement.
  3. Trust in God’s Promises: Remind yourself daily that God’s promises are true. He has a plan for your life, and His peace and hope are part of that plan.
  4. Surround Yourself with a Supportive Community: Being part of a faith community can provide support, encouragement, and accountability as you grow in your relationship with God.

A Prayer for Peace and Hope

Let’s take a moment to pray together:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for my friend reading this message. I thank You for the work You are doing in their life, even when it’s hard to see. I ask that You fill them with Your peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding, and with a hope that is firm and secure in You.

Lord, if they are feeling burdened, I pray that they would find rest in Your promises. If they are feeling lost, may they discover the hope that is found in You alone. Strengthen them, guide them, and help them to see that You are with them, every step of the way.

In the name of Jesus, our Savior and our hope, we pray. Amen.

Conclusion

Friend, God’s peace and hope are available to you today. He is working in your life, guiding you through every challenge, and offering you a future filled with promise. Embrace His peace, hold fast to His hope, and trust that He is with you every step of the way. Remember, He is the anchor for your soul, firm and secure.

May God’s peace and hope fill your heart today and always.

See Also:

Devotion to God, Father, Jesus

God’s perfect nature

Beloved, as we traverse the journey illuminated by our Lord’s light, let us reflect upon the immaculate perfection of God, revealed through the Scriptures with both grace and truth.

In Deuteronomy 32:4, we are reminded, “He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is He.” Behold our steadfast God, the Rock—unchanging, just, and righteous. His perfect nature is a sanctuary for all who seek His face.

David sings in 2 Samuel 22:31, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” In trusting the Lord, we embrace His perfection not as a burden but as a shield, protecting us amidst our trials and tribulations.

2 Chronicles 19:7 declares, “Now then, let the fear of the Lord be upon you; be very careful what you do, for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of bribes.” Approach God with reverence, recognizing His impartiality and the purity of His judgments, a reflection of His perfect justice.

In the wisdom of Job 34:10, we hear, “Therefore, listen to me, you men of understanding. Far be it from God to do wickedness, and from the Almighty to commit iniquity.” God’s ways are devoid of darkness, a reminder of His unblemished righteousness.

Psalm 18:30 reassures us, “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.” His word is our refuge, proven and pure, a source of comfort when we falter.

Ecclesiastes 3:14 reflects on the eternal nature of God’s deeds: “I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it. God does it, so that people fear before Him.” His works are complete and enduring, crafted in divine wisdom.

From Zechariah 9:17, we are inspired by the beauty of God’s nature: “For how great is His goodness, and how great is His beauty!” His perfection is not just in deeds but in the goodness and beauty that emanate from Him, drawing us nearer.

And in the words of our Savior in Matthew 5:48, “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” This call to holiness is not a command to legalism but an invitation to live in the fullness of God’s grace.

Yet, beloved, let us remember, in our striving to reflect God’s perfection, we are ever reliant on His grace. For when we fall short, as we inevitably will due to our human frailty, we are not cast aside. We have an Advocate, Jesus Christ the righteous, who intercedes for us. His sacrifice on the cross and His ongoing advocacy offer us restoration and renewal. Indeed, beloved, our anchor beyond the veil stands firm and steadfast. This anchor is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ, who entered not just the earthly holy places made with hands, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. It is a profound comfort and a source of immeasurable strength to know that He continually intercedes for us.

As it is written in Hebrews 6:19-20, “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf.” In this, we see the magnificence of His promise, the certainty of His covenant with us. His intercession is not a temporary act but an ongoing assurance of His eternal priesthood.

Through His intercession, our weaknesses, failures, and sins are met with mercy and grace. This grace is not a license to sin but a powerful incentive to pursue holiness out of deep gratitude for His unending love and sacrifice. When we falter, as we are all prone to do, we need not despair, for our Advocate with the Father pleads our case before the throne of grace. In Him, we find not only forgiveness but also the strength to rise again, to continue our journey towards holiness, reflecting His light and love in a dark world.

Let us hold fast to this hope, this anchor for our souls, which secures us firmly to the divine, even amidst the storms of life. Let this assurance of His perpetual intercession inspire us to live lives worthy of the calling we have received, lives that glorify God in every thought, word, and deed. Let this understanding fill us with hope and encouragement. Let us rise each day, not in fear of failure, but in the joyful assurance that our efforts to mirror God’s perfection are enveloped in His boundless grace. Thus, motivated by love and sustained by grace, let us endeavor to walk closely with our Lord, allowing His spirit to transform and perfect us in His time.

See Also

Revival

Behold, the Day is Coming: Prepare for the Glory of God

Behold, the day is coming when God’s glory will shine in its fullness, and every eye will witness the splendor of His grace. The Lord is near, drawing close to His people, preparing hearts for a divine renewal and transformation.

God’s Spirit is Moving Powerfully

The Word of God declares: “I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions” (Joel 2:28, AMP). This is a season of awakening. God is stirring hearts with holy fire—a fire that ignites passion for His name and fuels His purpose in His people.

In this moment, the call is clear: “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1, AMP). The time to shake off spiritual complacency has arrived. Cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light (Romans 13:12). The night is passing, and the dawn of God’s kingdom draws near.

The Church Must Stand Firm

You are part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, called to declare His praises (1 Peter 2:9). The world needs your light, now more than ever. Jesus reminds us, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, AMP).

Stay watchful, beloved, for Jesus promises: “I am with you always, [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance], even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20, AMP). He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End (Revelation 1:8). His Word will not fail; it will accomplish His perfect will (Isaiah 55:11).

Keep Your Lamps Burning

As the Bridegroom approaches, Jesus warns us to remain prepared: “Be on the alert [stay awake and watch], for you do not know which day your Lord is coming” (Matthew 24:42, AMP). Do not let the distractions of this world dim your focus. Keep your lamps burning bright with unwavering faith. Encourage one another and build each other up (1 Thessalonians 5:11), for the days are short and evil abounds.

The King of Glory is Coming

Rejoice, for the King of Glory is coming with power and majesty! Scripture declares: “Lift up your heads, O gates, and be lifted up, ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in” (Psalm 24:7, AMP). The King is faithful, and His promises endure forever.

Let your life be a testimony to His unfailing love. Stand firm in hope, grounded in His truth, and filled with His peace. As you eagerly await His return, live each day in surrender to His will, declaring boldly, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, prepare our hearts for Your glory. Stir within us a holy passion for Your presence. Teach us to stand firm in faith, to shine as lights in a dark world, and to remain watchful for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. May our lives reflect Your love and truth, now and forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Focusing on God’s promises, keeping our lamps burning, and standing firm will prepare us for the day of His glory.

See Also