December 16

But hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has come in, overflowing our hearts by The Spirit of Holiness who has been given to us”. Romans 5:5 (Aramaic Bible in Plain English)

Disappointments can pile up quickly, making mountains of despair big enough to bump up against, or trip over, as we journey day by day. However, if we place our hope in the only true God, Who has never let us down, and never will, we shall not be put to shame. He is at work, even now, turning hopes desires into promises fulfilled, in ways we cannot perceive.

He does not hold a promise out for you, then take it away, as others may be prone to do. Instead, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Holiness, will take every situation and circumstance, every mis-step and missed opportunity, and bring them all back around, working them all out for good. He does this because He loves you so and He does this for the glory of our gracious God, Who steadfast love and devotion is permanently and securely, set on you!

Beloved one, expect, hope, and believe—not only in His great and abiding love—but in the joy-filled, overflowing-with-goodness-and-grace days, brought forth with purpose for you. This is what your wonder working God can do!

Prayer:

Dearest Lord, I have at times been afraid to hope, as hope has led to disappointment and despair. But I can see now that maybe I was putting my hope in everything, and everyone else, besides You!

Today, Father, You know the things that are in my heart, the love and the longings, and I bring them all to You. You know the pain of past failures and regrets, and I surrender those too, in into Your strong and loving hands.

Precious Holy Spirit, would you take these hopes and these hurts, and do what only You can do. Transform them, rework and restore, and make all things new. That is what You are famous for, Lord. That is what You love to do.

I trust You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and I place my heart and my hopes, in You.