Tag: hope

How to Be a Hopeful Realist

Why We Think Hope is Unrealistic  Ironically, we often mistake hope for hopelessness. Look no further than the early stages of the pandemic in 2020. Driving through the spooky stillness of the first lockdown, I came across a marquee boldly declaring, “Hope is not canceled!” All of the

Death at Christmas

Hope in the Face of Darkness Back in 2012, a friend of mine who was a pastor in Hartford, Connecticut, asked me to preach at his church. I was preparing to go on a five-week mission trip to Asia, and this would give his congregation a chance to

Image four advent candles, one lit.

Joy of Expectation

The season of Advent is a time of joy and expectation. During this time, remember to reflect on the true reason for joy.

Eco-anxiety and Hope

Current environmental commentators have contributed to the modern psychological phenomenon of “eco-anxiety,” having you believe humanity is on the verge of extinction due to environmental destruction. While this claim is exaggerated, as God’s stewards, we can look to Him for hope, knowing that He will someday restore all things.

A Celebration of Easter

The celebration of Easter is more than a celebration of the past; it is also a pointer to the future resurrected bodies and the glory we will have in Christ.

The Immutability of God

God in His divine community perfectly portrays His attributes in harmony. The immutability of God is no different—who He is will never change.

A Growing Vision of God

No matter the season of life, we should never stop learning—and this is particularly true when it comes to the knowledge of God. It doesn’t matter how long we live, because there will always be more to learn about God.

1 Samuel 8: Hope for the Future

Have you ever wished you could change the ending of a story?
First Samuel 8 recounts one of those stories we wish we could change; it is not a story that goes well. Samuel’s sons have forsaken the way of the Lord, and, as a result, the people of Israel reject them as judges. But instead of remembering God is their King, the people demand a physical, visible monarch like those of the other nations, rejecting God.

1 Samuel 2: A Humble Honor

First Samuel 2 contains one of the great prayers of the Bible. The  prayer of a humble womangives us a picture of the honor and glory and praise due to God.

Judges 16: The Consequences of Disobedience

Samson’s story reveals a sad but common pattern: instead of celebrating the One who gave him his gifts, he preened his ego and applauded himself. Listen in to learn from the consequences of his disobedience and avoid his mistakes.