Heading Home

Today, I’m pleased to bring you the next segment of our Behave Like a Christian series. It is written by another cyber-friend, Elizabeth Marks, and is entitled Rejoice in Hope. Here’s Elizabeth…

Rejoice in Hope

“Rejoicing in hope…” (Rom. 12:12a NKJV)

Faith is a choice to believe things hoped for are really going to happen, as the writer of Hebrews tells us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Heb. 11:1 NKJV)

As Christians, we have much to rejoice in because of the hope given to us through belief in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Let’s take a look at some of the promises we hope in:

* One day we shall meet God, our Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ, our Savior, face to face.

The God who spoke the world into existence and knows everything about us, even down to the very number of hairs on our head, made us. He knows us. He loves us.

Jesus Christ, who sacrificed for us and died on a cross to pay the penalty of mankind’s sin, is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and we will see Him face to face.

* We will live forever in heaven, a place with no sin, no pain, no sorrow.

All the troubles, hurts, fears, and worries of earth will be but a distant memory, for heaven is a perfect place.

* We are assured of Jesus’ presence forever in this life, for He promised never to leave us or forsake us.

When we are tempted to feel lonely, depressed, sorry for ourselves, or thinking no one cares for us, we can remember Jesus Christ is with us right then and there. As believers, Jesus came to live in us by His Spirit so that He is always with us.

This same Spirit guides us in all truth and teaches us how to obey. He leads us along the path of righteousness. He provides the power and strength we need to do the right thing every time.

* We have been given everything we need to live a godly life until Jesus Christ returns to take us to heaven.

God provides everything. He equips us with His Spirit. He gives us signs to follow the way. He provides escape routes when we are tempted. He shields us with His armor so the enemy can’t touch us. He encourages us through other believers. He enables us to believe. He reveals exactly what we need, when we need it. He never gives us more than we can handle.

So, until our homecoming, we hold fast to the truth, knowing all things we go through are being used for our good because we love God and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28).

Yes, we have much to hope for and much to rejoice in. Our Holy Father is gracious, generous, loving, patient, kind, faithful, just, and trustworthy. So, if you find yourself slow to rejoice, shift your thoughts to God’s promises. Review what He plans for you.

Stir up your hope and rejoice!

© Elizabeth Marks has a heart to encourage and equip you with God’s Word. You might also enjoy Daily Bible Devotions. Sign up today for Bible devotions at ThinkOnIt Bible Ministries, Inc..