On What Or On Whom Is Your Hope Built?

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,  through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;  and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. - Romans 5:1-5

I make every effort to see everything in this life in the context of my new life in Christ. Remembering that all that I read, hear, and see has spiritual context. Today I went to the VA clinic for my annual checkup. So the routine is that I arrive before my appointment time and then sit in the waiting area for my name to be called "Veteran Elgin". 

As I sit in that waiting room I look at each of the other "veterans" that have come to the clinic for one reason or another. I try to imagine them as young men and women in uniform. What I most often see is people without much hope. Lonely - downhearted - a look of hopelessness on most of the faces. They are careful not to make eye contact with anyone.  In fact - of the 13 people sitting around me, all but 4 (including me) had their eyes glued to their smart phone. If I was trusting only in what this world has to offer - I might feel the same way. With that thought I am reminded of a song - 

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus and His righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.

Refrain: On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand: all other ground is sinking sand; all other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace; in every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil. - Edward Mote (1834) - Public Domain

When I see the doctor, he invariably asks me "How are you doing?" To which I reply "I am blessed! I have been watching people who are downtrodden physically and emotionally for the past 30 minutes and am thankful for the health and life I have been given."

And because of that, I make it a point to say something encouraging and kind when I meet people, most anywhere - in the doctor's office - in the grocery store - it doesn't matter. I believe that most people are looking for a reason to be hopeful. And when I say something to them, they brighten up for a moment. It doesn't cost you anything to be kind to someone. Well, I suppose with the exception that you have to set yourself aside for a moment and focus on someone else.

Say to those who are fearful hearted "Do not be afraid The Lord your God is strong with His mighty arms. When you call on His name He will come and save” ... With everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, And sorrow and sighing shall flee away. - Isaiah 35:4,10

As Christians, we have been given a message of hope. We have a responsibility to spread that message wherever we go. You don't have to look far to see someone who needs to hear it.

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone