Hope does not disappoint

Romans 4:25, Romans 5: 1 – 5

“He who was delivered over because of our transgressions, and was raised because of our justification. 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.”

I love the line that says. “and not only this.” Paul is talking about how we have peace with God through Jesus dying on the cross for us, then I just feel like he gets really excited and says ‘and not only this, but we get this too!’ So what else do we get besides peace with God and an eternity with Him? We get HOPE. Hope here on earth. According to the scripture it isn’t necessarily easy to get, but it doesn’t disappoint, because of God’s love.

This scripture says we have to go through tribulation, then perserverence, then proven character, then we finally get hope. The greek word for hope in this scripture is ‘elpo,’ which means to anticipate, usually with pleasure; expectation, or confidence.

What do you hope for? Do you feel that you are in a hopeless situation? What do you have confidence in?

Lord, I pray for those reading this, that they would be filled your hope. Hope that doesn’t disappoint, because of your love for us. I pray that you would help them see your light into their darkened situations. I pray that you would help them keep their eyes on you throughout the day. I just pray that you would impart to them your hope. Thank you, Lord, for loving us so much. Amen