Focus: Our Sure Hope

Text: Rom.5:5

"And hope maketh not ashamed..."

The Christian hope is neither an illusion nor a probability. And it is not just a possibility, but an absolute certainty. It is a sure thing.

Our hope stands on four legs, using hope as acronym.

*The Holiness of God

God's holiness is absolute and perfect. In holiness God stands out as distinct.

The holiness of God makes it impossible for God to renege on his promises. The holiness of God is the bedrock on which our hope solidly and concretely rests. God cannot lie, deceive or cheat. He has impeccable character. He can be trusted to keep His word.

*The Oath of God

God has not only promised; He has also sworn to keep His promise. God cannot change. His character is impeccably consistent.

*The Power of God

God promises nothing that His power cannot make happen. Eph.3:20 says that God is "able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us." Paul, in Eph.1:19, prays that we come to know "what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power." Our hope is resting on the omnipotent power of the almighty God.

*The Effulgence of God

By effulgence I mean the glory of God, or if you like, the excellent majesty of God. Furthermore, I am talking about the glory of His name - His nature, character and personality. For every promise made by God His honor is at stake. Our hope is resting on the honor and glory of God. God has honor. He has a name to protect.

Our God is true and faithful. He is holy and true, able and reliable. He keeps promises. He has a history with being trustworthy. He always does whatever He says. His word is forever His bond.

These are the pillars of our hope, the four anchors of our faith, and the indestructible bedrock on which our whole life and future rests.

God never disappoints and our hope in Him cannot be dashed. God will not put you to shame. In Christ your hope is a sure thing. Amen.

by Bishop Moses E. Peter