What It Means to Have Real Hope Because of Christ
Have you ever wondered what gives people real hope—especially when life gets tough? The Bible gives us an incredible answer in 1 Peter 1:3. It says: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
So, what does this mean for us, in simple everyday language?
God’s Mercy Gives Us a Fresh Start
First, it’s all about God’s mercy—His kindness and forgiveness, even though we don’t deserve it. Because of this mercy, God gives us a brand new start, almost like hitting the reset button on life. We’re “born again,” which means we get a new spiritual life, not just a fresh coat of paint on the old one.
Hope That’s Alive and Lasting
This isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a living hope. Think about the difference between hoping to win the lottery (which is shaky and unlikely) versus having confidence that something good is truly coming. That’s what God promises—a hope that’s alive, strong, and keeps us going no matter what comes our way.
It’s All Because of Jesus
How do we get this hope? Through Jesus’ resurrection. When Jesus rose from the dead, it proved that death doesn’t have the last word. Because He lives, we can be sure that our future is secure—our hope is anchored in something real and unshakeable.
Not Just for Someday—For Now
Sometimes hope sounds like something for the distant future, like when we talk about heaven. But this living hope affects us here and now. It means we’re part of God’s family, with a real inheritance that can’t be spoiled or taken away. It’s a hope that helps us face tough times, reminding us we’re never alone.
Putting Hope into Practice
– We don’t put our hopes in things that fade—money, fame, power, or even human wisdom. These don’t last and can let us down.
– Our hope is in God and His promises. This encourages us to trust Him and wait patiently, even when life is hard.
– When trouble comes, we remember this hope. It’s not just about getting through life—it’s about living with joy and confidence, knowing that God is with us.
A Life That Looks Different
Because God has given us this living hope, we can live differently. We let go of old habits and attitudes that drag us down—like anger, greed, or bitterness—and put on kindness, patience, and love. We’re called to be united, showing compassion to everyone, no matter their background. Our hearts become full of gratitude, and we help encourage others, sharing the hope we’ve received.
Why It Matters
Worldly hopes are shaky; they come and go. But the hope God gives is steady and trustworthy. It lifts us up, even in the toughest moments. We know that our future is bright, and our present is filled with purpose.
So, whenever you feel discouraged, remember the living hope you have through Jesus. It’s not just a nice idea—it’s a deep, ongoing assurance that God’s love and mercy are with you, now and forever.
May you find peace, joy, and encouragement in this hope every day!
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 