Years ago, I came across a Christian author (sorry I don’t remember her name), who said she often made the notation “YBH” in the margins of her Bible or other devotional reading. The initials stand for “yes, but how/” In other words, I agree with this, but how do I go about accomplishing it in my own life? That’s a serious question. We may know all about the Bible and our Christian faith, but if we can’t put it into practice in our lives, that knowledge is fruitless.
The Bible does have some practical words about how we will obtain hope in our lives. In the book of Romans, Paul says that since we have been justified and reconciled with God through our faith:
“… we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:2
He then goes on to explain how this hope will develop:
“…we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:3-5
We don’t have to go looking for suffering in this life — it will come to us sooner or later. We will experience illness, turmoil and loss. However, if we bear with those things by continuing to do God’s will, we will not only gain good character, we will experience renewed hope. (For more on character see Personality or Character).
True hope is not being an unrealistic Pollyanna — it is trusting in God, who loves us and gives us good gifts even when times are bad. So when suffering comes, meet it with equanimity and persevere in doing what is right; hope will come and it will not disappoint you.
For more on the topic of hope see these posts:
Mere Hope by Jason G. Duesing — Book Review
Lutheran Ladies Connection 