Bible Question:
What is "Hope"? That is to say, how should a Christian define hope? Of course our hope is found IN Christ. But I'm speaking of this way us Christians have of making God into our own personal Genie - wishing for something and expecting Him to make it come true. Where is the line between being in God's will and hoping for something specific that you know he wants for us (like a spouse or a home), and manipulating God with our prayers? Hebrews 11 says Faith is the substance of "things hoped for"... and Proverbs says "Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life". 1 Corinithians 13 talks of hope, groups it with faith and love - these three things remain: faith, hope and love. I know what faith is, I know what love looks like. But what is a good Christian definition of hope? Things hoped for, makes me think we are supposed to hope for things, of course always in God's will, but what about specifics? |
Bible Answer: InHisService: Welcome to the Forum! You ask a very fine question. I wonder how many of us "hope" in prayer, missing what we are to hope for. I think hope may have many definations for many people. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, I am positive Paul hoped for the thorn in his flesh to be removed. The Lord knew what His will for Paul was. Often we pray for what we hope for rather than for Gods direct will in a situation or something we need or want. I believe in praying for the direct will of God, and in that I am sure to get the correct answer. There is no way to manipulate God. Faith and hope are often the two sides of the same coin. Paul hoped for removal of his thorn in the flesh, but by faith he was able to overcome his weakness by Gods powerful Grace. Paul learned contentment with his weakness so that for Christ's sake he became strong. I believe this is a lesson that takes a lifetime of walking close with the Master, Jesus Christ, to learn and to apply in our daily lives. As for specfics I encourage you to ask in hope of being in line with the Lords will. There are few in the forum that have serious health problems. We Hope for healing, we pray in faith that the Lords will is done in their lives, and it shall be. I have hope all my grown children will live a close walk with the Lord Jesus. I am very specfic with this prayer. In Faith I give their lives over to the Lord. The key is each of my adult children have freedom of choice. They can follow the Lords leading or not. I pray in faith they do. I can say I see God work in ways I never dreame possible. I have prayed about transpertation needs, material wants, and physical comforts. I have many times asked amiss. Many times the answer was far better than I had hoped for. I have faith that the Lord knows His will for me. Psalm 139 goes into very clear detail as to how well the Lord know me, and knows what is the very best for me, and you as well. I hope this is helpful, and blessings to you. Enjoy the Forum! justme |