What does "assurance of what we hope for" mean in your life today? Understanding Faith’s Bedrock “Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1) • “Assurance” (Greek hypostasis) is the real, tangible substance under the invisible. • “Hope” (elpis) is confident expectation, never wishful thinking. • Together, faith grips an unseen reality as solidly as if it were held in hand. Hope Anchored to God’s Character • Hebrews 6:18-19 — “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and steadfast.” Because God “cannot lie,” hope is moored to His unchangeable oath. • Numbers 23:19 — “God is not a man, that He should lie.” Our certainty flows from who He is. Promises That Shape Today 1. Future resurrection — John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:14. 2. Complete salvation — Philippians 1:6; 1 Peter 1:3-5. 3. Ever-present help — Hebrews 13:5-6; Matthew 28:20. Everyday Expressions of Assurance • Facing uncertainty: remember providence (Romans 8:28). • Battling temptation: rely on promised escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). • Enduring grief: cling to guaranteed reunion (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). • Serving sacrificially: trust unfailing reward (1 Corinthians 15:58). How Assurance Grows • Scripture saturation — “Faith comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17). • Spirit’s witness — “He has prepared us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a pledge” (2 Corinthians 5:5). • Remembered victories — 1 Samuel 17:37 pattern: past deliverance fuels present confidence. • Fellowship reinforcement — Hebrews 10:23-25 links holding fast to gathering together. Living Today with Tomorrow’s Certainty • Speak promises aloud when doubts whisper. • Schedule decisions with eternity’s timeline in view. • Celebrate glimpses of fulfillment as down payments on the full inheritance. Encouragement to Hold Fast “Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23) Assurance of what we hope for makes tomorrow’s guarantees shape today’s choices, steady today’s emotions, and fuel today’s obedience—because God’s Word, literally true and unwavering, stands behind every promise. |
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