BIBLE READING: PSALM 146, 147; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:1-29
“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” 1 Corinthians 15:19 (KJV)
The Christian finds hope in this present life in Christ. The assurance in the father and son relationship, the joy he derives in sweet fellowship of the Holy Spirit and the comfort of the scriptures gives him reason to live. It is such a joyful and peaceful communion with the Holy God. Jesus came to build bridge between God and man. He came to bring salvation to the fallen sinner and to restore him back to the Holy God.
Everyone who accepts the salvation that Jesus offers finds peace with God and enjoys the peace of God knowing that he is accepted and his sins are forgiven. This hope and joy in this new found relationship gives the believer the strength to go through the trials, temptations and challenges of life. This hope transcends this present life. It gives assurance of a glorious eternity with Christ in heaven.
The resurrection of Jesus from death guaranteed this hope of eternal life to every true believer. When the believer in Christ faces persecution and trials, he sets his eyes on Jesus who for the joy before him endured the cross. This hope of eternity with God keeps the believer excited and motivated as he runs the Christian race. Everyone that has this hope purifies himself (1 John 3:3). This hope of a place of joy and glory is the privilege of believers in Christ.
PRAYER: Oh Lord, keep the hope of eternity with you strong in my heart.
Rev. Vincent Diolu