The Blessing of Abiding Hope
This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
The LORD's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.(Lamentations 3:21–23)
Father, show us again the hope that is in the Savior. Calm the minds of those who are anxious, lest they fear that which they have no reason to fear. But for those who live in a false kind of security and with a smug sophistication, for those who think, someday I'll deal with this, may misery dog their steps. Offer them no relief and no peace, as You, Spirit of God, bring them to their knees . . . so they might be brought to faith. Direct their hope to the only true source of hope in this world: Jesus Christ.
Thank You for the hope that Your people have because of the Savior. May it not make us indifferent and distant from the lost, but—on the contrary—may we be sensitive, available, in touch, aware, in step with today. Keep us clearheaded, compassionate, and willing to help. Allow Your hope to penetrate to the deepest recesses of the soul. And as the knowledge of the soon return of Jesus grows within us, prompt us to be people who live out that hope—for ourselves, for others, and for You. We're grateful for truth and how it delivers us from error and needless fear. May we not become indifferent to the desperation of those around us, as we become acutely aware of the many needs throughout our world. In the compassionate name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
See also Psalm 31:24; 42:5; Proverbs 24:14; Romans 5:4-5.
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