True hope of the saved
Philippians 3:12~14 Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (13~14)
Hymn for scheduled prayer: Korean/English #488 My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (#539 in previous version)
When we cannot see hope, we become discouraged or feel powerless. In contrast, if we can see hope, we can restore strength however difficult the situation may be. The saved people of God receive answers when they think about the fact that God is with them and pray. If we truthfully confess to God about our situation, He will show true hope to those who are saved.
1. True hope of the saved
Paul who discovered true hope in prison confessed that he presses on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called him heavenward in Christ Jesus. As he prayed for his family, Joseph saw true hope and was not shaken. Also, he was not discouraged even in slavery and prison. Daniel was not shaken before death. Peter who was ignorant and poor saw true hope when he received salvation and prayed. Rev. Ju, Ki-chul who was martyred for opposing the worship of Shinto shrines also saw true hope and kept his faith.
2. Background of those who have true hope
Those who have true hope from God come to know their identity and background. To run toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called heavenward (Philippians 3:14) means that the ones who have true hope have the background of heaven. Also, God works by sending heavenly angels wherever they go. It is the background of prayer to receive spiritual strength and the background of evangelism to bind the forces of darkness. Also, it is the background of the heavenly throne to go to the Lord’s throne when He calls.
3. Commission of those who have true hope
Those who have true hope know what they must do and must relay that true hope to others. Their commission is to speak of the true hope that the saved enjoy to people who have hardship.
- What is your true hope? As the one with true hope, deeply meditate upon your background and commission.
Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 2nd Service / 2011. 7. 3