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The Christian Life
Are you living in hope? “Behold, I lay in Zion a choice stone a precious corner stone and he who believes in Him will not be disappointed “. (1 Peter 2:6) “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure”. (Hebrews 6:19) The Christian`s hope is not in the here and now but in what is to come. It is based on Jesus (the precious cornerstone) through his teachings, his death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit is given to open our spiritual eyes to these truths and sincerely believe in Jesus. John 3:3 says “unless a man be born again (born spiritually) he cannot see heaven”. This work of the Holy Spirit indwelling in born again Christians brings spiritual understanding, real belief, a new hunger for God, and assured hope. Another aspect of Christian hope, is the promise that it will not leave us disappointed. ”Philippians 1:6 reminds us “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus”. Because our hope, is not based on our own ability, but the work of Jesus in us, we can be confident of it’s success, a confident hope. “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am”. (John 14:3) Our hope is validated, through the witness of others. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” We are not alone. The Scriptures tell us of those who have gone faithfully before us and of those who have fought the good fight. As witnesses they encourage us to follow their example. Seeing God working in other believers strengthens our own faith and testifies to us that our hope is based on truth. And this is the will of him (God) who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day”. (John 6:39) The future of God’s children is more secure than tomorrow’s sunrise. When the Holy Spirit is given, it is a seal of our salvation. The names, of those to whom the Holy Spirit is given, are written in the Lambs book of life, paid for with the Savior's blood. 1 Corinthians 6:20 tells us, “for you were bought with a price” . Our hope is not just wishful thinking, but anchored on the promises and power of God. Leaving a sinful life is hard, but for those who leave and live for Jesus, there are no regrets. “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to give you a hope and a future. ‘” (Jeremiah 29:11). As Christians we must ask, does our life reflect this hope? If you will come to Jesus, and follow him, he will give you this Hope. Come! Colby Reeves – Evangel member Evangel Church PCA (evangelchurchpca.org) Thompson Rd, Alabaster - SS 9am, Worship 10:15 |
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