VERSE:
The faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel.
— Colossians 1:5
THOUGHT:
In our Christian walk there will be struggles. Sometimes we may struggle with our faith in believing the promises of God. Other times we may struggle with really loving people the way Christ loves us. Many Christians try to deal with these struggles in different ways. One might pray for their faith to increase; another might pray for the love of God to fill them… These prayers in themselves are not bad; however, according to Colossians 1:5, faith and love are just the natural byproducts that spring form the hope that is found in the gospel.
APPLICATION:
Instead of trying to conjure up faith and love in your own strength, or even praying to God to give them to you, try filling yourself with the hope of the gospel. Daily read the bible and preach the good news of Jesus Christ to yourself reminding yourself of the great promises found in Christ. Instead of asking God to impart greater measures of faith and love, ask Him to fill you with hope, and watch faith and love spring out from it.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I thank you for the hope that is stored up for me in heaven. Daily remind me of your great promises in Christ Jesus, and fill me with the hope of the gospel so that faith and love would be my natural responses. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN!