Finding Hope in God

This Bible Study will teach us what it means to have hope in God and in the bible.  Biblical Hope is the certain expectation of something happening; not just the possibility of something happening. It changes what we value (1 Peter 2:11) and affects what we do with our lives– time, talents, finances and who we become(Matthew 6:19-21). Along with faith and love, hope gives us the ability to endure during difficult times and it produces joy and peace in our lives (Romans 12). Hope is real because it is founded on what God can do.

Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.

Lamentations 3:21-22

Does your relationship with God give you the courage to dream and hope?

What is your hope in? 

My ears had heard of you before, but now my eyes have seen you.

Job 42:5 (NCV)

Do you hear God speaking to you? What is he saying? How are you responding?

God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.

Matthew 5:8 (NLT)

When our hearts are connected with God, we have Spiritual Vision. If you’re not experiencing this connection, you have to evaluate your heart condition so that you can see God in everything, and not be lost/distracted by your circumstances.

Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.

Psalm 34:5 (NLT)

How much have you been praying and allowing God to help you?

Do you welcome his help, even if it doesn’t come the way you thought it would?

Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied.

Psalm 17:15 (NLT)

True and lasting satisfaction can only come from our relationship with God.

It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.

Hebrews 11:27 (NLT)

We get Spiritual Vision when we focus our eyes on God. Faith is not based on emotions or approval from people.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18(NIV)

Losing heart = becoming hopeless; faithless. Everything you experience is temporary. Our hope is based on this eternal glory and not our present hardships.

He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.

Psalm 23:3-4(NLT)

God renews, guides and protects us.

Do you believe that God’s plan for your life is the best possible plan?

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. [21] Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NLT) 

With God we can accomplish infinitely more than we can ask or imagine!

What things can you do because of your relationship with God?

God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me— my whole life one long, obedient response. Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway! Give me a bent for your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot. Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way. Affirm your promises to me— promises made to all who fear you. Deflect the harsh words of my critics— but what you say is always so good. See how hungry I am for your counsel; preserve my life through your righteous ways!

Psalm 119:33

How much are you praying and asking God for wisdom?

How hungry are you to learn?