The Source of Hope

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The Source of Hope

1 Peter 1:3-9

Hope can be defined as the desire for something good and the expectation of receiving it. Jesus Christ is the only genuine source of hope, because He alone knows what is best and also has the sovereignty and power to secure its fulfillment. In contrast, other hopes are grounded on the shifting sands of circumstances beyond our control.

We all have expectations for the future, but these often pertain only to earthly life. Christ promises us the “living hope” of an imperishable inheritance in heaven. Everyday desires will fade away, but our eternal heavenly home is our ultimate security and anchor when life’s storms are severe.

However, heaven can seem far away when pain is present and there’s no relief in sight. So how do we endure trials right now? One way is through hope, which anticipates a change of circumstances for the better.

But what about when our situation isn’t improving—then, what’s the Lord doing that’s “better”? Peter tells us He is refining our faith, which will result in praise and glory when Jesus returns. This proves more valuable than gold or even relief from our distress. What a paradox! The difficulties that cause us to lose hope are the very tools God uses to increase our faith and hope in Him.

Christ promises us hope not only for eternity but also for this life. Those times that God does not deliver us from difficulty, we can be sure He is doing a greater work within us. When we finally reach our eternal home, we’ll recognize the immeasurable value of the faith He produced in us as we kept our hope in Him.


1 Peter 1:3-9

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,

5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,

7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

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