Now that I have the time and inclination to get in the social media game, I have discovered some very interesting stuff. Apparently President Obama’s promise of “hope” for Americans has stimulated a lot of thought and renewed interest in the subject.
For that interest I am thankful. What I recently read on a popular website, MarketPlace.org is not very encouraging. Click here to see what 4 literary “stars” had to say when asked to expand on “What does hope mean now?”. Two of those who contributed are actually Pulitzer Prize winners. None of the four revealed much understanding of the concept. Most of what they had to say was cynical and frankly quite shallow. If you are interested and actually read any of them, let me know your opinion.
Found this picture on Google Images and it really stimulated my imagination. At the top, of course, is the priceless commodity all human beings want to have and never want to lose. The “One Way” sign in the center begins to lead a searcher in the right direction as well as hinting at the Truth of where hope resides. Read John 14:6. The red traffic light commands the traveler to STOP. It may be the most helpful part of the picture because moving along with the crowd surely leads to dangerous areas of “politically correct” assumptions. Or worse, one could wander around writing mindless thoughts in order to fill up space.
Here’s a great quote based on solid ground:
“What gives me the most hope every day is God’s grace; knowing that his grace is going to give me the strength for whatever I face, knowing that nothing is a surprise to God.”
Rick Warren
How does Rick Warren know so much about hope? He found it in the Bible and experienced it through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
For a believer, hope is not wishfully thinking that things like a football game, a test or politics will work out well. It is a settled fact based on promises found in the Word of the Creator Himself.
Romans 15:4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
”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.” Romans 15:13 (NIV)
Yes, this Hope is for you, too! If you did not realize that, or if you are still skeptical, find out more at the following website. Begin by clicking on “About” and follow “Beliefs” and “Values”. Then check out “Jesus: Do you know Him?”.
