Hope 1.17.21
I’m sure looking forward to 2021 and am sure filled with hope. That hope does not come from the government, the church, my own resources or anything temporal. As the old song says, “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
In reading Romans a few weeks ago, a very familiar verse took on fresh life. I’ve used it often as a benediction or a closing in correspondence. It says: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” (15:13) But that’s only part of the verse.
As I read on I discovered the “hope” that I can have comes “by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (15:13b) Now I’ve been a Pentecostal boy all my life and certainly believe in the power of the Holy Spirit. But generally I think of power for service or miracles. But this says – WE HAVE HOPE BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT!
How exciting to know that we have reason beyond optimism to be hopeful for this New Year. Let’s pray together that the Holy Spirit will fill us as individuals and as a church with the spirit of hope as we trust in Him.