We are watching an unprecedented time in our life as people are filled with fear due to the recent spread of coronavirus. I️ see it in people’s eyes. Feel it in your voice. Sense it grip your being. This underlying emotion called fear has erupted in our nation due to the coronavirus. It has spread like wildfire, much more rapidly than the virus itself. Many have wondered why God would allow this to happen and lose sight of hope.
Since the Fall
Ever since the fall of mankind (Genesis 3), all of creation has been subjected to the futility of sin and death. Even Christians who are saved by grace cannot escape this reality. Unpleasant as it may seem, we must all face the uncomfortable news that we will one day die. It is unavoidable unless Jesus comes back first. Not only are humans subjected to such bondage, but all of creation as well.
Creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 8:19-25
Our Hope Anticipates
As Christians, we hold tightly to hope because we know that the day is coming when not only we but all of creation, will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. At present, we groan inwardly as we eagerly wait for Jesus’ return and the full redemption of our bodies. We share in the futility of present-day life and corruption and heartache and pain with all of humanity. (If you would like to read more about how to make sense of the coronavirus, I️ suggest reading How Do We Make Sense of the Coronavirus? from Desiring God).
Our Hope Saves
Amid confusing circumstances, we can find comfort in knowing that this is not our home. We’re not to get too comfortable here on earth. For believers, the sting of death is gone (1 Cor. 15:55) because we know where we are going to spend eternity in heaven! No more pain or sorrow (Rev. 21:4). No more separation from God (Revelation 20:6). Our bodies will be redeemed. All the brokenness will be healed. We will be made complete and whole. And constantly in the presence of Jesus our Lord and Savior (1 John 3:2).
Hope that is seen is not hope. Hope is in the unseen. It is a confident expectancy of what’s to come. Much more than a mere desire. It is what keeps us holding on. Despite what our current circumstances may bring, we know where we will spend eternity. God never tells us how long our trials will last or what is coming around the bend. All He tells us is to keep our eyes focused on Him.
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Phil. 3:14
Our Hope is Confident
Hope doesn’t come naturally. We must continually preach it to ourselves. Hope is more than a wish or desire for something to happen…it is confidence. Not an emotion. It is a sure steadfastness, an anchor that holds you firmly to foundational truth.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for the work you did on the cross so that we can confidently hope in the future. We know you are coming back. We know where we will spend eternity. Our hope is in you. We trust you with today. Amen.
If you have doubts about where you will spend eternity and would like to know more…will you please reach out to me. I️ would love to talk to you! Simply go to my contact page and fill out the form.