"Hope Rebellion" | July 27, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

In a world often filled with uncertainty and challenges, where do we find the strength to keep moving forward? The answer lies in a powerful force that has the potential to transform our lives and the lives of those around us: hope.

But what exactly is hope, and how does it operate in our lives as believers? Let's explore four key truths about hope that can revolutionize our perspective and empower us to live with purpose and courage.

1. Hope is Grounded in God's Unchanging Character

True hope isn't wishful thinking or blind optimism. It's a deep-seated confidence rooted in the very nature of God Himself. As Hebrews 6:18-19 reminds us:

"So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls."

Our hope isn't based on shifting circumstances or our own abilities. It's anchored in the unchanging character of a God who cannot lie and always keeps His promises. This truth provides a stable foundation, even when everything around us seems to be crumbling.

2. Hope Demands Courageous Action

While hope begins with trust in God's character, it doesn't end there. True hope compels us to act. As James 2:17 states, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

Hope isn't passive; it's a catalyst for change. It moves us to take risks, to stand up for what's right, and to step out in faith even when the odds seem stacked against us. When we truly believe in God's promises, it should reflect in our choices and actions.

3. Hope is Contagious

One of the most beautiful aspects of hope is its ability to spread. When we live with genuine hope, it has a ripple effect on those around us. Our confidence in God's promises can inspire others to put their trust in Him as well.

This is particularly important for younger believers. As 1 Timothy 4:12 encourages, "Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." The church needs the passion and fire of its younger members, and their hope-filled enthusiasm can reignite the faith of those who have grown weary.

4. Hope Builds a Lasting Legacy

When we allow hope to guide our actions, we contribute to something far greater than ourselves. Hebrews 11:13 speaks of the heroes of faith, saying, "All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it."

Living with hope means we're building for a future we may not fully see in our lifetime. It's about leaving a legacy of faith that will impact generations to come. This perspective helps us persevere even when we don't immediately see the fruits of our labor.

Cultivating a Hope-Filled Life

So how do we cultivate this kind of transformative hope in our daily lives? Here are a few practical suggestions:

1. Immerse yourself in God's Word: The more we understand God's character and promises, the stronger our hope becomes.

2. Surround yourself with "hope carriers": Seek out relationships with believers who radiate hope and can encourage you in times of doubt.

3. Take action on your faith: Don't just talk about what you believe – live it out. Look for opportunities to put your hope into practice.

4. Share your hope: Be intentional about sharing the reason for your hope with others, both in words and actions.

5. Persevere in difficult times: Remember that hope often grows strongest in the darkest moments. Trust that God is working even when you can't see it.

6. Create a hope-filled environment: Whether in your home, workplace, or church, strive to cultivate an atmosphere of hope that influences those around you.

The Power of a Hope-Driven Church

Imagine a church community truly driven by hope – not a safe, comfortable hope, but a dynamic, action-oriented hope that's willing to take risks for the sake of the Gospel. This kind of church would be:

- Messy but alive, constantly growing and adapting
- Welcoming to the passion of its younger members
- Unafraid to tackle difficult issues with love and grace
- Focused on building for the future, not just maintaining the status quo
- A beacon of light in a world often consumed by darkness and despair

This is the kind of church that can truly make a difference in the world, embodying the hope we have in Christ and drawing others to Him.

A Call to Hope-Filled Living

As we reflect on these truths about hope, let's ask ourselves some challenging questions:

- Is my life characterized more by hope or by fear and anxiety?
- Am I allowing God's promises to drive my actions, or am I playing it safe?
- How can I be a "hope carrier" to those around me who may be struggling?
- What legacy of faith am I building for future generations?

The choice is ours. Will we allow ourselves to be paralyzed by the challenges and uncertainties of life, or will we choose to live as people of hope, anchored in the unchanging character of God?

Let's commit to being individuals and communities driven by hope – a hope that is grounded in truth, spurs us to action, spreads to others, and leaves a lasting impact. As we do, we'll discover that hope truly is the anchor for our souls, enabling us to stand firm and make a difference in a world desperately in need of the hope we have in Christ.