Hope of Heaven

Romans 5:1-5
1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us—they help us learn to endure. 4 And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. 5 And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

King of Heaven,
You are my Hope and my heart’s One desire! Thank You for the priceless, precious, perfect gift of peace I received the moment I first believed that You are the Father of my Lord, Jesus Christ. Accepting Your generous gift of peace placed me in a position of privilege in Your presence. Because Jesus brought me to You, we can enjoy a close intimate relationship. As Your relative I can confidently stand straight and tall before Your throne and address You as my loving Father. I don’t have to be afraid. I know that You will lavish me with grace, mercy and love rather than criticism, judgment, and revenge. Joyfully, I anticipate becoming the beautiful, blameless child You intend me to be.

King of Glory, let me cheerfully and courageously embrace troubles and trials believing that they are for my good. Polish me with patience to persist through the pressures of sin, suffering and sadness. Pain will purify and perfect my personality. As I conquer crises and catastrophes, I will emerge from the fire stronger, purer, and closer to Your perfect image.

Holy Spirit, please pour love into my heart today. No matter how busy, tired or frustrated I am, please help me to keep smiling and respond with patience and kindness. No matter how sick, lousy or hurt I feel, give me a cheerful heart and a desire to serve others in love. Make my heart a shimmering showcase to display Your fine workmanship. Please let others see the Hope of Heaven in me, and be glorified in my life, Lord, be glorified today because of Jesus. Amen.

How do you respond to troubles and trials, crises and catastrophes? Can the watching world see your hope of heaven?