How can we apply Abraham's example of hope to our daily struggles? The Verse in Focus Romans 4:18: “Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, ‘So shall your offspring be.’ ” What Abraham’s Hope Looked Like • Hope that defied visible evidence—his body “as good as dead” (Romans 4:19) • Hope anchored to God’s spoken promise, not changing circumstances • Hope that grew stronger through worship: “he gave glory to God” (Romans 4:20) • Hope fully convinced that “God was able to do what He had promised” (Romans 4:21) Why His Hope Matters to Us • Same God, same faithfulness—promises to Abraham extend to all who believe (Romans 4:23-24) • Our salvation itself rests on trusting God to do the impossible (raise Jesus, forgive us) • Daily struggles become arenas where God displays His reliability Practical Ways to Live Abraham-Like Hope Today 1. Memorize the promise that fits your battle. – “For all the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20). 2. Speak the promise out loud when doubt whispers. – “Faith comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17). 3. Thank God before the answer arrives. – “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). 4. Refuse to measure God by your limitations. – “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). 5. Surround yourself with hopeful voices. – “Encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:13). 6. Remember past deliverances. – “This I recall to mind, therefore I have hope” (Lamentations 3:21). 7. Keep eternity in view. – “Our momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Encouraging Cross-References • Genesis 15:5-6—Promise first given under a starry sky • Hebrews 11:11-12—“From one man … were born descendants as numerous as the stars” • Hebrews 6:17-19—God’s oath and promise are “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” • Psalm 42:5—“Put your hope in God” during emotional lows • Isaiah 40:31—Those who hope in the Lord “will renew their strength” • 1 Peter 1:3—A “living hope” through the resurrection of Jesus Christ Closing Challenge Choose one struggle you face today. Attach to it one clear promise of God. Then, like Abraham, believe “against all hope,” thanking God for the outcome He has already declared. Expect Him to prove, once again, that nothing is too hard for the Lord. |
    |