Sunday Morning Series - And God Gave Gifts to Men - Two Kinds of Hope

Text: Hebrews 10:23 & I Peter 1:3-9

What is hope? As we've said in past lessons, hope is something future. We don't hope for what we already have.

We strengthen our hope by thinking on the things we expect. (Philippians 4:8) We can think about the good things listed in the scripture or negative things. It's our choice. Unfortunately, if we allow a bad thought to occupy us, it's like eating potatoe chips. You can't eat just one. One unhealthy, negative thought brings all its buddies along with it.

Hope that is not renewed is forgotten or faded. Chewing on the good things of God's Word keeps it in the forefront of our mind and heart. It leaves no room for the negative.

The bad type of hope comes from the world. How do you know if you have this type or the good kind of hope? Worldly hope is based on fear and produces expectation of destruction, disruption, disturbance, and is detrimental. A few examples in scripture admonishing someone to not fear are: Luke 1:13, 30, Luke 2:10, Luke 5:10, Luke 8:50, Luke 12:7, and Luke 12:32. There are many more. Get rid of the fear.

Godly hope comes from the Word of God. It is based on faith not fear. Its fruit is beneficial, helpful, gainful, profitable, useful, pleasant, and good.

Why would you want to live life in fear, being depressed? Talk about God's blessings and say what He says. According to I Peter 1:3-9:

1) We are begotten unto a lively hope.

2) We are heirs.

3) We are kept by the power of God.

4) We are receiving the end of our faith, even the salvation of our souls.

To enjoy the entire message, check our website, and click on the Sermon Player. If you are visiting or live in the area, you're welcome to join us for either our Sunday (10 A.M.) service or Wednesday (7:30 P.M.) service. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), Warrington, PA. For more information, call (215) 343-7686 or visit our website.