Day 11 of 12 Reasons to Rejoice: Advent Devotions
The phrase “resurrection hope” sounds like one of those terms Christians like to throw around to make themselves sound holy, doesn’t it? And indeed, it can be—if you use it without truly knowing what it is.
So what is it?
Hi, I’m Lauren Thell, author of Christian YA fiction and blogger for teens who are ready to exceed the world’s expectations.
Resurrection hope is the certainty that what’s to come is far bigger and better than anything you’ve ever known or imagined. Ever been on a long road trip where you’re stuck in the car with siblings whose habits seem designed to invoke madness? And you just want to call it off and turn around but you know the destination at the end will be the awesomest place you’ve ever seen?
This is so much better.
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.
Romans 8:18-19, 23
Resurrection hope isn’t simply the expectation of future relief from physical pain. Your resurrection hope changes you now.
It turns you from wickedness to holiness because you recognize what you suffer here in the short term is a blink compared to the lasting glory of an eternity with Christ. Burdens become opportunities to experience and long for more of God. And pleasures?
Mere appetizers to the grand feast you know awaits you in heaven.
Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
John 16:20, 22
What you hope for tomorrow changes who you are today.
Hope helps you reject the allure of sin, endure life’s battles, and eagerly anticipate an extraordinary, over-the-top eternal joy in God’s presence.
That’s resurrection hope at work in you right now. Because he rose, you will rise too. Rejoice!
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
For Further Reading on Resurrection Hope
Go ahead and read all of John 16! For more on how your resurrection hope changes you, check out Romans 8.
Related posts:
- Life Got You Down? Thank God For Forever!
- How to Build Rock Solid Faith When God Stirs the Coals
- 4 Truths That Make Every Day a Great Day
You don’t have to have all the answers.
but, hey, why not?
Bring me your questions about faith, life, God, the Bible… and I’ll help you find the answers.