What We Hope For

As the Apostle Paul winds up the Letter to the Romans, he says: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (15:13).  “The God of hope” wants believers to “abound in hope.”

But today hope is in short supply.  Our weary world, worn down by pandemic and politics (etc.!), is desperate for hope.  And yet, let’s be careful—and be clear on what Christian hope hopes FOR.

Christian hope is bigger than mere optimism.  We don’t hope merely for good health, happy times, or a brighter tomorrow.  Nor do we hope merely for justice, decency, and peace in the world.

Our hope is in connection with “believing.”  As God pours out upon us “all joy and peace in believing,” we’re positioned for the Holy Spirit’s power to light up our lives.  But, again, note the word “believing.”  Having faith.  Depending on Christ.  Laying our lives in the strong, loving arms of our Good Shepherd.  Believing.

Romans explains, and summons us to, a life of faith in Jesus (3:21-26).  That’s our calling—to trust him, lay down our self-will, and rest in the truth that he’s with us for good, no matter what.

But notice that our trusting is sandwiched between God’s mighty acts:  he fills us with joy and peace, and his Spirit fuels us to exude hope.  So we trust him—giving thanks for what he’s done and anticipating what he will do.  Of course, this doesn’t mean we expect a life of bliss or ease; joy doesn’t eliminate trials—it grows as we gaze on Christ even in the midst of those dark valleys.

So what is it we hope for?  For everything Jesus is and has done for us that we receive by faith—especially bearing our guilt and securing eternal life by going to the cross in our place (5:8).  In Christ, ours is the hope of heaven; we revel in the wonder of God’s gift of everlasting salvation.  That is our hope.  And that is what God calls us to be ready to share (1 Peter 3:15).