Day 200: Never Give Up Hope!

Today’s Scripture: Romans 4:18-5:5

Central Thought: Hope in God by trusting in His promises.

Abraham never gave up hope! God promised Abraham that he would be the father of a nation. Years went by, and Abraham had no son. He tried to ‘help God” by taking a second wife. God rejected that proposal. Sarah was God’s chosen mother.

Abraham was one hundred years old, with Sarah not far behind. He was still convinced that God would do what He said. Others gave up. Sarah laughed. But Abraham’s unwavering faith and hope was accounted to him as righteousness (Romans 4:22). Isaac was born; and the Jewish race, out of which Christ was born, came into existence. Abraham’s hope was rewarded!

Today we hope in the promises of God through Christ and the completion of His plan in our lives. But how does one come to the kind of hope shown by Abraham? Hope begins with salvation. And being ‘justified by faith,” we rejoice in the ‘hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1,2).

Hope does not just happen. First, tribulations (sufferings) bring patience (endurance). Over time, patience produces strength of character. Out of proven character is birthed hope (verses 3-5). Hope is anchored in heaven where God sits upon His throne. We should never give up hope. God will fulfill all of His promises. He gave Abraham his son. He will fulfill His plan in your life and mine.

Devotional Prayer: Lord, help me to develop and maintain hope as I trust in Your promises.

Today’s Bible Reading: 1 Chronicles 26:12-27:34; Romans 4:13-5:5; Psalm 14:1-7; Proverbs 19:17