Control

Most of us like to have control over the events and circumstances that impact us. We like to plan what will happen to us and for us and we are driven to make sure that it all works out favorably for us. And yet, there is so much of what happens in our lives that we are unable to control.

II Corinthians 5:14-15 says, “For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” We want to control everything that impacts us. But our control rejects the love of Christ for us and opens the door for sin to control us. But because He died for us and removed the penalty for our sin, we are now free to live for Him, motivated by our love for Him.

House Not Made With Human Hands

Every house over time develops some flaws, whether they come from use, time, or abuse. Every home also develops flaws over time, which come from flawed humans living together.

II Corinthians 5:1 says, “For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” Our true home is where we are loved beyond measure and fully accepted. This home is free from struggles and hurt. It is the place for fully knowing and worshipping God our Father.

Overlooked

Sometimes, the effort and good work that we put to a task is overlooked by those who should know. Perphaps, we were not recognized on the job for the exceptional work we put into a project. Or maybe, people did not notice the kindness that we showed to them, which was beyond what they could expect. It is disappointing to have our good efforts overlooked.

Hebrews 6:10 says, “For God is not unjust to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do.” God knows us better than we know ourselves. He sees the work that we do in His name and the love that we demonstrate. He understands the sacrifices that we make to serve others, as He has endured the same for us.

No Means to Steer

We are all familiar with the story of Noah and the ark. God told Noah to build an ark in the middle of the wilderness. God gave Noah specific instructions on how to build it, what materials to use, and what the dimensions must be. However, God didn’t give Noah any means of directing the ark. The ark had no sail, no rudder, and no motor by which Noah could steer the ark. All Noah could do was trust God to direct the ark to the right place and at the right time.

Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Hope is not wishful thinking, but rather is rooted in the character of God. Hope is activated by faith and trust in the God of promises. Hope increases as we exercise faith based upon His promises.

Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Many people have spoken of a light at the end of the tunnel. This expression is offered as encouragement that even though we may be passing through dark times, the light at the end of the tunnel remains fixed and will ultimately grant us peace. When we are struggling, we seek some steadfast hope that will see us through the difficulties.

Hebrews 6:18-20 says, “we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” The promises of God and the priestly work of Jesus on our behalf give us hope, which is a steadfast anchor for our souls through life’s storms.