Humans can survive the loss of almost anything, but not the loss of hope.
In a world that over promises and under-delivers, where suffering seems to be on the rise, we all need a hope that endures. Without it, our joy, energy and courage simply evaporate.
The Christian faith is rooted in the work of salvation completed by our Triune God. When hope comes from God, it enables us to overcome even the most difficult of circumstances. Do we understand it? Can we get more of it?
In this sermon, Ines explores how, as Paul tell us, we can increase our hopefulness even when we experience great suffering. She teaches us that Christian hope is more than wishful thinking or naive optimism. Rather, Christian hope is the foundation of a purposeful existence that allows us to engage the world with courage.
In moments of suffering we are faced with a choice to reach out either to the loving hand of God or the fiery arrows of the Devil. Endurance arises out of our willingness to trust God and persevere in spite of challenges. The confidence that comes from our salvation also protects our mind from Satan’s tricks.
Over the past week, when did you experience the most hope? When did you struggle to hold on to it? And how is God calling you today to a greater faith?
This sermon was presented at Mariners Church Chapel in Irvine, CA.