Hope – The Evidence of Things We Don’t See

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Hope – The Evidence of Things We Don’t See

Main Scripture:
Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Introduction

Hope is a powerful force. It keeps us moving forward, even when circumstances are challenging. In life, we often face uncertainties, trials, and moments of doubt. Yet, hope serves as the light that guides us, reminding us of God’s promises. Hope is not blind optimism—it is grounded in faith and trust in God’s character. Today, we will explore the nature of hope, its significance in our lives, and how it anchors us in unseen realities.

1. Hope Is Rooted in Faith

Hebrews 11:1 describes faith as the confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hope is deeply connected to faith. Without faith, hope becomes wishful thinking. Faith gives hope substance; it reminds us that God’s promises are trustworthy even when they are not immediately visible.

Think about Abraham, who hoped against all odds for the fulfillment of God’s promise of a son (Romans 4:18-21). His faith sustained his hope, and his hope kept him obedient to God’s instructions.

Let us evaluate our hearts today: Are we placing our hope in God’s unchanging promises, or in fleeting circumstances?

2. Hope Strengthens Us in Trials

Romans 8:24-25 tells us, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

When life becomes difficult, hope gives us the strength to endure. Like an anchor, hope keeps us steady during storms, reminding us that these challenges are temporary. In fact, trials often reveal the depth of our hope.

Think about Job, who endured unimaginable loss but clung to the hope of God’s goodness and restoration. Job’s hope was not based on his circumstances but on his unshakable trust in God’s character.

How do we respond to trials? Do we cling to hope, or do we give in to despair?

3. Hope Is a Gift from God

Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Hope is not something we muster up on our own; it is a gift from God, given through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we feel weary or uncertain, we can turn to God in prayer, asking Him to fill us with His hope.

David expressed this in Psalm 42:11, saying, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Hope enables us to experience joy and peace, even in uncertain times.

4. Hope Points Us to Eternity

2 Corinthians 4:18 reminds us, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Our ultimate hope lies in eternity. While the world offers temporary solutions, God promises eternal life through Jesus Christ. This eternal perspective helps us navigate life with purpose and assurance.

Consider Jesus’ words in John 14:1-3, where He assures us of the heavenly home He is preparing for us. This hope of eternal life transforms how we face present challenges, giving us a sense of security and anticipation.

Call to Action: How to Cultivate Hope

  1. Stay Anchored in God’s Word – Scripture is filled with promises that fuel our hope.
  2. Pray for Renewed Hope – Ask God to fill you with His Spirit and refresh your heart with hope.
  3. Encourage One Another – Share your hope in Christ with others, reminding them of God’s faithfulness.
  4. Fix Your Eyes on Eternity – Live with an eternal perspective, knowing that God’s promises never fail.

Conclusion

Hope is the evidence of things we don’t see—it is the confident expectation of God’s faithfulness and the assurance of His promises. Whether you are in a season of joy or struggle, hold on to hope. It is the anchor for your soul, the strength in your trials, and the light that points you to eternity.

Let us close with this prayer:
“Lord, thank You for the gift of hope. Help us to trust in Your promises and walk by faith, even when we cannot see the way forward. Fill us with Your hope today and guide us as we share it with others. Amen.”

Closing Scripture for Reflection
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”