Scripture and Hope

For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures.

Romans 15:4

THOUGHT

Elizabeth and Zechariah were familiar with the prophecy and truths of the Old Testament. They eagerly anticipated the Messiah's arrival and saw God's work in the lives of faithful people before them. Scripture served as the foundation for God's guiding and hopeful work in their lives. They believed Scripture was more than stories or history; it was the Word of the Lord that offered direction and hope.

In Romans 15, the apostle Paul explains that the Word of the Lord was written to instruct, encourage, and help believers endure. As Paul wrote and as Elizabeth and Zechariah experienced, the Scriptures offered guidance for living faithfully. They highlighted the faithfulness of past saints to inspire current faithful living. The Word provided hope through perseverance and formed part of the foundation of life rooted in God's truth and promises.

REFLECTION

Committing to engage with the Word of God means allowing it to reinforce our hope rooted in a relationship with Christ. Scripture sustains hope through life's ups and downs. When we neglect it, we deprive ourselves of the nourishment that helps us maintain proper, confident, and eternal hope. Like Zachariah and Elizabeth, we should make Scripture a catalyst for deepening our reliance on the Lord.

PRAYER

Lord, help me find peace in the hope Your Word offers. Let Scripture speak into my life when I feel discouraged or overwhelmed, filling my heart with confidence and certainty that You are with me through every season. Amen.