For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Romans 15:4

In the context of my daily job, it is pretty common for me to listen to stories of personal despair. Sometimes the source of disheartenment is the death of a family member, an estranged child, or a lost job. Hopelessness is all around us and as I listen to the stories I am struck by the often, temporary solutions we have to offer others outside of the hope that is rooted in Christ.

As Paul notes in the verse above, the follower of Christ finds hope in the promises of Scripture. 

“We have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe”(1 Timothy 4:10).

“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him”(Lamentations 3:21-24).

Being light means bringing hope to others. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us to be prepared to give a reason for the Hope that is in us. Let’s remember the encouragement of Scripture so that we can share our Hope with others.