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TODAY'S VERSE
"And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." Romans 5:5 (NIV)
TODAY'S THOUGHT
Today's verse is talking more than a simple, "I hope so." No, Paul is talking about a hope that does not disappoint. How many times do you experience that? We have all had times when we hoped, hoped for that job, hoped that our child would not rebel, hoped that we would be able to escape certain consequences. But sometimes it doesn't work out. It seems that our hopes are gone. But that is not the hope Paul is talking about. Paul is talking about a "persevering hope", a hope that keeps going until it produces a trust and confidence in God's abiding love for us.
Paul writes, "We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."
Yes, in this world we suffer. We make mistakes, and we live with other people's mistakes. But through the hope that doesn't go away, He produces perseverance. This builds our character and faith, resulting in wisdom and ultimately a deep reverence of hope. This hope will not disappoint. It is the result of God pouring His love into our hearts by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.
Today, trust God. It may be unbearable, but trust God. That trust will eventually turn to perseverance and mature us into an unquenchable hope.
TODAY'S PRAYER
Father, how many times have I hoped but things didn't seem to work out? It is so hard, dear Father, to hang on. And yet You ask me to persevere. So here I am, Lord. I will hope, I will get back up and hope again. I know You are real and You will never leave me or forsake me. So, my Lord, I choose You. I choose You and Your love for me. I am trusting in Your hope that will not disappoint. AMEN |
| | Posted 4/28/2009 9:32 AM - 4 Views - 0 eProps - 0 comments
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