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A Final Word

A Final Word

This is my final column. I’m retiring. In 50 years of ministry, one verse has been an anchor. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13 NIV).

A pastor on a flight experienced the most horrifying ride of his life. The storm tossed the plane up and down. Thunder roared above the engines. The passengers were praying, gasping, and scared half to death. But the pastor observed a little girl unphased by it all. Legs tucked under her, she read her book, and only occasionally when the plane dipped or rose sharply she would close her eyes for a moment and then go on reading. He was amazed to watch her total calm in a sea of worried adults. The plane landed safely, people hurried off, but the preacher stayed back. He asked the girl how she stayed so calm. She said, “Cause my Daddy’s the pilot and he’s taking me home.”

This is hope, the assurance God is my Father through faith in His Son Jesus. He is my pilot. He is taking me home. He is my hope. Look at the five phrases of this verse.

First, “May the God of hope.” God does not force Himself on you. To have hope you must make God the priority of your life. Focus on loving and obeying Him through His Son Jesus.

Second, experience the blessings of hope. God wants to “fill you with all joy and peace.” Renew your emotions and attitudes. Replace your fear and worry with all joy and peace from the God of hope.

Third, “as you trust in Him.” This is the requirement of hope, you must trust Him. Surrender to Jesus as Lord by faith. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Fourth, the God has a purpose for your life, “so you may overflow with hope.” Overflow by using your gifts and talents to serve others in ways that honor and glorify Jesus. Give your unique cup of cold water away while witnessing to them about who Jesus is.

Finally, “by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Depend on the Holy Spirit’s energy, indwelling, filling, and power in your life to love and obey the God of hope.

Thank-you to so many who have read these devotionals over the years. Joy and peace, Pastor Denny Wright, Balboa Baptist Church