The God of Hope
Date: April 4, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Word and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study and savor
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B (Bible Verse): "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 (NIV)
L (Listen): Dear God, as we read this verse today, we ask you to open our hearts and minds to hear your voice. Fill us with your hope, joy, and peace, and help us to trust in you even more. We ask that you guide us and give us the strength to face any challenge that comes our way. Amen.
E (Explore): The book of Romans was written by the apostle Paul to the Christians in Rome, who were dealing with divisions and conflicts in their church community. In this particular passage, Paul is encouraging the believers to live in harmony and love, and to support one another in their faith journey. He reminds them that God is the source of all hope, joy, and peace, and that by trusting in Him, they can have confidence in their future.
S (Study):
God of hope: Refers to the idea that God is the one who gives us hope and confidence in the future.
Joy and peace: These are two important aspects of the Christian life that come from trusting in God.
Trust: The act of placing our faith and confidence in God, knowing that He will provide for us and guide us.
Holy Spirit: The power of God that works within us, helping us to live in accordance with His will.
S (Summarize):
These words are a powerful reminder that God is the source of all hope, joy, and peace. When we put our trust in Him, He fills us with these things, and we are able to overflow with hope.
I know that life can be tough at times. Perhaps you're going through a difficult situation right now, and it's hard to see a way out. Maybe you're feeling discouraged, hopeless, or anxious about the future. But I want to remind you that you are not alone.
I want to encourage you to hold on to this truth, even in the midst of your struggles. Trust in God, and allow Him to fill you with His joy and peace. Let His hope overflow in your heart, and know that He is with you every step of the way.
Remember that God is not only the God of the mountaintops, but also the God of the valleys. He is with you in your pain, and He will never leave you or forsake you. He is a faithful God, and He promises to be with you always.
As you think about this verse, remember to approach it with an open heart and a willingness to be transformed by God’s truth. Consider reading and studying the verses around Romans 15. They talk about God’s character and faithfulness.
I pray that you will be filled with hope, joy, and peace as you trust in God. May His presence be a source of strength and comfort to you, and may you experience His love in a deeper way than ever before.
Bible Cross References:
Psalm 146:5 - "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God."
Colossians 1:27 - "To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."
1 Peter 1:3 - "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
Hebrews 10:23 - "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."