Looking to the future with hope changes your entire outlook, no matter your situation. The world in which we live with it hurts, and uncertainty creates a constant need for hope. Our hope in the Lord is essential for a balanced outlook. When people do not have hope, they can be deeply disappointed when life does not unfold the way they desire.
I remember visiting a homebound older person years ago, and on each visit, he always greeted me with the same verse about heaven. 1 Corinthians 2:9No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. [1] This older saint told me he was placing his hope in Jesus and what the Lord had for him one day in heaven. When we have hope, it allows us to endure the present as we look to the future.
Job Had Hope During His Suffering
As you read the book of Job, you realize that he was in a tremendous spiritual battle. In this spiritual battle, Job suffered significantly due to his health and the loss of his children and property. Although Job suffered greatly, he never lost his focus on the Lord and continually looked to him for strength, comfort, and hope.
Job 19:25 But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and he will stand upon the earth at last. 26 And after my body has decayed, yet in my body, I will see God! 27 I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought! [2]
No matter what others were saying around him, Job focused on the Lord, his Redeemer. Job also knew that one day he would die, but that would not end his existence. As he contemplated a time when he would see the Lord, he was overwhelmed and filled with joy and excitement.
The Hope We Have in Jesus
It is the promises of the Lord that give us hope. The author of Hebrews tells us that our hope as believers is like an anchor. Hebrews 6:19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary.[3] This hope is based on the good news of Jesus, His death, and his resurrection. Because Jesus died for our sins, we can be called to faith, forgiven, and have eternal life.
In contrast, Paul says in Ephesians 2:12 that people who don’t believe are without hope. The word hope may be a tiny word, but it is powerful. As believers, we can turn to the Lord anytime, no matter the situation, and rely on his comfort and promises. The Psalmist says it best. Psalm 31:24 So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord! [4]
To learn about looking to the future with hope, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/fulfilled-resurrected
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.