In the book of 1 Peter, the author (Peter) says that we Christians are to give a reason for the hope that resides in us (1 Pt 3:15). Now this hope of course is something more than a tangible want list that I hope to acquire. The hope Peter speaks of extends beyond the seen to know and trust that God is working in the unseen portions of life leading to eternity. Like your salvation. No one really can see salvation. Well of course we can see the evidences that accompany salvation (changed life/living), but no one can see the gift of salvation. So hope is a matter of trusting God that his Word is true and that he is true to his Word. I turned to the first chapter of 1 Peter and there my eyes and heart fell upon these words …
who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father (1 Pt 1:2a)
Let me say emphatically as a child of God … you and I are CHOSEN and we are chosen by God. Now here is what most people do with such words … they get all encumbered with the words “chosen” (elect) and “foreknowledge” and begin making arguments as to what it does and doesn’t mean to the point many become frustrated, upset, etc. and miss the point of hope! I have to believe that when God inspired Peter to write these words he (God) was not looking to create a doctrinal fuss … but all the more a statement of HOPE! Peter was writing to people then, as today who are frustrated with life, pressed on all sides and need a note of hope, and God obliges with … “you have been chosen.” Revel in it! Glory in it! Praise God in it! No matter what you are going through have HOPE! So one reason for the hope in me is … iHope in my God who chose me and whose Word is true and he is true to his Word!
Peace & Glorify~
