A WISH OR A PROMISE

READING: ROMANS 8:22-30

Verse 25: “But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.”

If I needed encouragement about something coming up in the future, I wouldn’t be content with a wish toward that event. The dictionary defines a wish as an expressed desire for something. A wish is just a statement about some desire. That alone is not something that stirs much passion or enthusiasm. For anything important, I would want more support than what comes from a wish. A hope as defined in the dictionary would be better. It says that a hope is also an expressed desire, but one accompanied by an expectation and belief that it will happen. An expression of hope provides more strength and  vigor than is found in a mere wish. However, the encouragement that I would most want – is scriptural hope. This is hope that is based on a Believer’s status in Jesus. As stated in verse 25, this is hope that involves waiting eagerly with perseverance. For real encouragement, don’t settle for a wish. No, no! Scriptural hope is something that will make a difference. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Does this reading speak to you about your source of encouragement?

2. What is a verse of scripture that provides hope for you?