Inside: No matter how we feel at any given moment, our ultimate hope doesn’t lie in a particular plan, product, event, outcome or circumstance. ~

When is the last time you experienced the thrill of hope?

I feel sweet anticipation surge through me when I get a bit of good news or when the fog clears and the way ahead becomes more obvious. It’s not just emotional or mental; there’s almost a physical sensation attached to it.

These days, though—as I work to savor the holidays at the end of one of the strangest years of my life—a deeper hope is serving as my anchor. The kind of hope that makes a weary world rejoice, according to the beloved Christmas hymn.

No matter how we feel at any given moment, our ultimate hope doesn’t lie in a particular plan, product, event, outcome or circumstance. I understand this intellectually, but sometimes, my heart needs to be reminded of what my head knows.

I don’t know what’s going on in your life this Christmas season, but perhaps you could use some reminding too. Using the truth of scripture as our guide, let’s break it down together.

The Strength of our Heart

Our hope doesn’t come from a clean house, a regular routine or a completed to-do list. It’s in God, the One who steadies the pillars of the earth. (Psalm 75:3)

Our hope doesn’t come from endorphin-inducing exercise, anti-aging remedies or health insurance. It’s in God, the strength of our heart and our portion forever. (Psalm 73:26)

Our hope doesn’t come from a good sermon, a worshipful song or a meaningful devotional. It’s in the God who acts on behalf of the ones who wait for Him. (Isaiah 64:4)

Our hope doesn’t lie in more Instagram followers, more Facebook friends or more blog subscribers. It’s in the God who lifts our heads and fulfills His purposes for us. (Psalm 3:3, Psalm 57:2)

Our hope doesn’t come from words of affirmation, offers of help or overtures of support. It’s in the God who goes before us and is with us, who will never leave us nor forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

The One Who Works Wonders

Our hope is not met by a political party, election results or whoever lives in the White House. It’s in the King of heaven who lives forever and rules over the kingdom of men. (Daniel 4)

Our hope isn’t in the stock market, financial freedom or a holiday bonus. It’s in the God who supplies all our needs “according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Our hope doesn’t come from perfectly fitting jeans, perfectly executed plans or perfectly behaved children. It’s in the God who works wonders and is near to all who call out to Him. (Psalm 77:14, Psalm 145:18)

Our hope isn’t in a healthy eating plan, a good night’s sleep or favorable weather. It’s in the God who is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. (Proverbs 30:5)

Finally, especially at this time of year, our hope doesn’t come from Advent candles, festive decorations or happy family celebrations. It’s found in Christ alone, the One who is and forever will be our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father and Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Friends, let’s rest in that hope—as we celebrate Christmas, and also as we turn the calendar page to a brand new year.

♥ Lois

P.S. I’m linking up this week with InstaEncouragements, Let’s Have Coffee and Grace & Truth.