“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3

Jesus was raised to life and is now in heaven at the right hand of God. Now I can know for sure that when I die I will be raised to life with him in heaven forever. I can totally rest in my God knowing that nothing can separate me from him. One day I will be with him forever.

All those who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3

All we need to get to heaven is faith. To believe that he meant what he said, that we could come to him and he would forgive everything. No limitations. Once we believe we are purified and God sees us just as our King, Jesus, perfect.

“For I know the plans I have for you, ‘declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

It is hard at times not knowing what the future holds for me. I do have good people taking care of me and so far I can do most things for myself as far as keeping busy and basic needs. My body needs help getting up, showered, and dressed. Will I get worse? I can’t stand anymore and my feet and ankles are bent pretty bad. I know I will decline as I age. But God will take care of me.

“My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way, and my arm will bring justice to the nations. The islands will look to me and wait in hope for my arm.” Isaiah 51:5

Justice is difficult to describe, but God is very just and will eventually bring punishment to those who deserve it. He will make all right.

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12

It is hard to wait for things we need and want and this can bring angst. But when good finally does come we rejoice in God who is so faithful.

“May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.” Psalms 25:21

When I spend my time doing things that are good, following his commands and his example it does bring rewards. It brings joy, peace, and blessings. His ways work and are always worth it.

“For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.” Psalms 37:9

When we get to heaven there will be no evil, and wicked people, those who have been forgiven and are free from past mistakes. We are totally new creatures. We will be perfect in our perfect home.

“Hope in the Lord and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed you will see it.” Psalms 37:34

One day we will be rewarded for all of our efforts to serve patiently. Those who have not done God’s will and have lived evil lives will have to face his wrath.

“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.” Psalms 39:7

The Lord knows just what I need. I have learned that he will provide even if there is not much I have control over. Lately because of illness the people doing my laundry have been running behind getting my clothes back. I joked with caregivers that I would have to go naked tomorrow because I had no more pants. Well bright and early they came in with a stack of clothes. Just in time. Thanks God.

“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Psalms 42:5

I wake up each day with hope and expectation, I didn’t always but I can think of a million reasons to choose joy and not sadness or anger. The biggest one is that I only want good so I choose joy. It never causes regret or anxious thoughts.

“For what you have done I will always praise you in the presence of your faithful people. And I will hope in your name, for your name is good.” Psalms 52:9

Coming together as a common people to worship and learn more about God with people who believe the same way is so important. We hold each other up. Community, us and God. A threefold strand will stand strong.

You are so good to me and you have given me awesome daughters that always make sure I have everything I could need and want. Thanks!

You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds, God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas.” Psalms 65:5

You are always working and you are always good and that will never change.