I did not understand until recently that going through trials and challenges is actually the way we enter into true biblical hope. The hope that anticipates with joy God's goodness, that expects like a child, God will do what He says.
Did your parents ever promise to take you somewhere amazing as a kid? Or promise to get you that gift that you always wanted. Usually, when a child hears their parents promise these types of things that child eagerly awaits to receive that special something. Kids don't wring their hands wondering if what their parents said will happen, they simply are excited and joyfully anticipate receiving that promise.
That sort of hope is promised in the bible. Just read Romans 5:3-5 "3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."
Take a listen to this podcast and discover the key to entering into true biblical hope. We will walk through these scriptures: Romans 5, James 1, Psalm 13 and 1 Samuel chapters 13 - 26. Here is the link to the podcast: How Do We Find True Hope?
God Bless,
Bradley DeRuiter