Second Presbyterian

View Original

Advent Devotional: Hope

"God, these are darkening days, with little hope in sight. Help us in our fear and exhaustion. Anchor us in hope."

– Kate Bowler

'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'

Jeremiah 29:11

During children’s time in church I once asked what they thought “hope” was. His answer was “faith”. Well, that sounds pretty accurate, but, perhaps biblically, “hope” is more accurately the part of faith that deals with the future.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1


Our world is a difficult place. It is almost impossible to turn on any media source and not be fearful of our future.  How is that some people are able have joy in these arduous times? I would say, “hope”.  How can some seem to grow stronger through personal adversity? Again, “hope.”  We all need hope to get through these trying times. To know what God has for us is our salvation.

So I finish up this Devotion on hope by asking that we all, "be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Romans 12:12


In hope,
Ken


You can sign up here to join our mailing list to have these devotionals arrive to your inbox each Monday morning during Advent.

If you are looking for a simple daily practice this season, you can download Kate Bowler's Bless This Advent devotional here.