Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
As we embark on our journey through the Year of Hope, I want to share a profound truth that has been stirring in my heart: there’s a remarkable difference between worldly hope and Godly hope. While the world places its hope in temporary achievements and material success, we are called to something far greater.
“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” – 1 Corinthians 15:19
The Danger of Limited Hope
Many of us approach our faith with a narrow perspective. We come to Christ seeking blessings for this life alone – better jobs, financial prosperity, good health. While these blessings are wonderful gifts from God, focusing solely on earthly blessings is like settling for breadcrumbs when a feast awaits us.
Why Christians Sometimes Lose Hope
Have you ever wondered why some believers become deeply discouraged when facing trials? The answer often lies in their perspective. When our hope is limited to earthly outcomes, every setback becomes a crisis of faith. But what if God is inviting us to hope in something far more eternal?
God’s Search for Kingdom Partners
“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one.” – Ezekiel 22:30
Here’s a striking truth: God is actively searching for people who will partner with Him to change the future. He’s not looking for perfect people or those with impressive credentials. He’s seeking willing hearts who will say “yes” to His calling.
Your Untapped Potential in Christ
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” – John 14:12
Perhaps the most extraordinary promise in Scripture is that believers will do even greater works than Jesus did. This isn’t about our ability – it’s about His power working through us. The question isn’t whether you’re capable; it’s whether you’re available.
Breaking the Expertise Excuse
One of the most common barriers to serving God is feeling unqualified. Let me share a personal story that happened during my quarantine in Macau. When an elderly man collapsed in the lobby, people didn’t wait for medical credentials to help – they responded to the immediate need.
Similarly, our world is spiritually collapsed and dying. We don’t need perfect theology to share Christ’s love – we need willing hearts ready to serve.
Moving Beyond Knowledge to Commitment
After 40+ years in ministry, I can testify that God isn’t looking for experts – He’s looking for committed hearts. When my wife and I stepped into full-time ministry as young people, we had no financial security plan for raising children. Yet God provided every step of the way.
Your 2023 Challenge
As we progress through this Year of Hope, I challenge you to:
- Shift your perspective from temporal hope to eternal hope
- Ask God daily: “How can I be used by You today?”
- Take one step of faith in sharing Christ with someone this week
A Prayer for Godly Hope
Let’s pray together:
“Father, I want to be used by You. Help me see what You see and feel what You feel. Open my eyes to the eternal perspective and give me courage to step out in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Your Next Step
Don’t let this message remain just words on a screen. Your journey toward Godly hope begins with a simple decision to be available. Share in the comments below: How will you make yourself available to God this week?
Remember: God isn’t calling the qualified; He’s qualifying the called. Will you answer His call today?