The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) is the characteristic that is formed by the Holy Spirit and is the result of the Spirit’s presence in our life when we accept Christ as our savior. This inner fruit begins in the heart and affects our outward actions, our words, and our activities to glorify the Lord and accomplish His will. The fruit of the Spirit is not meant to be kept to oneself, but rather shared with others. As we have been transformed, the fruit in our life is evidence of that transformation and causes us to live out our hope in Christ visibly before others.

Hope, in today’s world, is normally a feeling used to express a wish or a desire, as in “I hope I can go to the beach” and often convoys doubt, as in “there’s no hope it won’t rain.” The Word of God gives new meaning to the word “hope.” In Hebrew it is batah and means confidence, security, and being without care. Biblical hope has its foundation of faith in God, therefore, carries no doubt. It is a sure foundation upon which we base our lives, having confident assurance in believing God always keeps His promises. Accepting the gift of eternal life means our hope is secure in God’s Word, the entirety of His character, and the finished work of Jesus Christ. 

Praise

Praise God for the confidence that comes from knowing for sure, without question, what we have been promised by His Word. Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

What is God’s promise of hope?

God promises that if we trust in what He says we will be filled with joy and peace, while overflowing with hope. Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”.

How do I put my hope in God?

Anchor your hope in God alone, go to Him in prayer, and then to His Word. Romans 15:4, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”

How can I share God’s hope?

Live a life that reflects your faith and be ready to talk about your personal story with God. 1 Peter 3:15, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Pray

Lord,

I praise you for never forsaking me, for never turning away when I seek your presence. Your comfort gives me renewed hope when I am weary, anxious, and facing trials. The world is so noisy and can fill me with despair. Keep me close, Lord, and help me to hear you say, “I am your hope” over all noise. God of hope, fill me with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit I may abound in hope.

In Jesus’ name

Amen.

All Scripture verses are from the New International Version (NIV).