As we travel through this life, we find ourselves using terms and phrases that have multiple
meanings. One of those terms is the word hope, which carries multiple meanings depending upon
the situation it is used in. Webster defines hope as “desire, accompanied by expectation of or belief
in fulfillment.” It is not uncommon to hear someone say “I hope…” in reference to some event, or
even in reference to their own salvation. The reference to one’s salvation is what ought to be most
important in life and should never be taken for granted. Peter gives specific instruction regarding
the hope that is in a Christian in 1 Peter 3:15 “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always
be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with
meekness and fear:” which all ought to take heed of. The biblical aspect of hope is the assurance
and promise that the salvation granted will always be there, and never revoked by the Lord, but is
not received when the individual turns away from their God. Jehovah God is steadfast and true in
all aspects of His eternal being and would be breaking His promise of eternal life if He were to
abandon anyone. Jesus taught in Matthew 18:12-14 that the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to go
find the one who is lost, thus solidifying His position of never leaving any soul unattended or
alone. The Hebrew writer says in Hebrews 13:5-6 “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be
content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake
you.” 6 So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
There is such a great lesson in this passage of the love and desire that all men come to repentance
as reiterated in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count
slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should
come to repentance” which shows the absolute love Jehovah God has for the pinnacle of His
creation, mankind.
When doing self-evaluation of one’s life as a Christian, it is important to remember that
each is holy in the eyes of God (1 Peter 1:15-16) and that righteousness is imparted to those who
live a Godly life (1 John 3:7). Throughout the New Testament, the recurring teaching of forgiving
others (Matthew 6:12,14-15,18:21-22), so that forgiveness from the Lord is received infers that
self-examination and self-forgiveness must take place along with forgiving others. If one cannot
forgive themself (1 John 1:9) for things done in this life, then repentance and a faithful Christian
life is impossible. Do you have hope as defined in scripture or is there doubt as to whether Heaven
is your eternal home? If there is doubt now is the time to strengthen your prayer life, your daily
Bible study and build your faith as strong as possible. John records in John 14:1-4 Jesus giving a
stark reminder of what is to come, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe
also in Me. 2 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I
go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and
receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. 4 And where I go you know, and
the way you know.” May Jehovah God bless us all as we travel through this life.
