The dictionary defines hope as a looking out for something good; a belief that what we wish for will come. Are you hoping for the positive outcome of your dream, a sickness, or finances? Do you see the desired end result in your minds eye so vividly that you can almost touch it? What is your hope based on? Were you very excited yesterday when the stock market jumped or the doctor gave an optimistic prognosis? How about today, when the market had a sudden drop and the hospital reported further complications in your condition?
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Heb. 11:1). Now, what does that mean? You mean that no matter how hard it gets and when everything points to disaster you still have to hope against all hope? So, if you clench your teeth, purse your lips and scrunch your eyes together in faith trusting your dilemma will pass, it should go, right?
Well, lets have a look how the Bible puts it. In the fifth book of Romans it tells us to even go so far as to glory in tribulation! As you delve into it you will discover that this is true because hardships are a time of testing. The more you learn to rely on hope, and by...