“So prepare your minds for action, be completely sober [in spirit—steadfast, self-disciplined, spiritually and morally alert], fix your hope completely on the grace [of God] that is coming to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:13 AMP

The Apostle Peter reminds us that there is a place where hope will never disappoint. The verse here doesn’t say that disappointment will never enter the life of the believer. It does however give us a place of refuge when it does…the grace of God! As long as Christian hope is alive, life cannot break us, the enemy can’t defeat us, and the grave will not overcome us. When the weight and affliction of this world come in like a flood, He can lift up a standard against them. I am reminded of a statement that the Apostle Paul wrote,

“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose” Romans 8:28 AMP

I love the fact that God isn’t sitting on a throne somewhere as an arrogant king but rather as one who is “deeply concerned about us.” The question we must ask ourselves is WE are deeply concerned about His plan for this life! The above verse from Paul stresses that the promise is to those who are “called according to His purpose.” His purpose? The answer is clear,

“The Lord does not delay [as though He were unable to act] and is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is [extraordinarily] patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 AMP

Jesus Himself told us this fact in the parable of the lost sheep.

“So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones be lost.” Matthew 18:14 AMP

Once we are confirmed as citizens of God’s Kingdom our whole perspective on life should change. Our time, finance, life-calling, motivation should be geared to see His Kingdom come. Paul again wrote,

“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting comfort and encouragement and the good [well-founded] hope [of salvation] by His grace, 17comfort and encourage and strengthen your hearts [keeping them steadfast and on course] in every good work and word.” 2 Thessalonians 2:17-18 AMP

Are you seeking hope in your life today? Look to the plan and purpose of God, get in line with it and watch depression and fear melt away! Have a blessed day, Pastor Ken