Light an Advent Candle for Hope

November 28, 2016/CathyChung/

Topics to Dig Into

Who is He?

What is God like? Who is this man Jesus? How can we understand the Holy Spirit?

The Visible God

God is present and active in our lives, often working through people and ‘coincidences’. Thank and praise Him!

Making it Practical

Following Jesus in today’s world can be challenging. But living according to Jesus’ teaching is incredibly worthwhile. Call it life-changing.

He Knows You

God’s love is unconditional. He knows our hearts and continually invites us into relationship.

Ah-Ha!

Learning about the culture and language of Bible times can reveal new meaning in familiar scriptures. Let’s call them ah-ha moments.

Let
us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith
brings. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is
faithful.

Hebrews 10:22-23 (NLT)

On
the first Sunday of Advent, my church lights a candle for the hope that Jesus’
birth brings (other churches may light the Advent candles in a different
order).

What
is the hope Jesus offers?

We
use the word casually these days, hoping for a sunny day, hoping there’s no
traffic, hoping you understand. At this time of year kids are hoping Santa
brings what they want. In today’s language hope is the same as wishful
thinking.

Christian hope has nothing to do
with wishful thinking. (tweet this)

It
is far more certain, actively looking forward to something with great
confidence. Hope knows that God will fulfill His promises. Christian hope trusts
God.

I
find hope in knowing that the world is not as it should be. Especially amid the
current divisiveness, I depend on Jesus returning to restore peace and justice
to the world. I find snippets of hope when one person loves another as Jesus
intended.

I
also feel hope knowing I’m not alone. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus is with us
every moment. He longs to be in relationship with us, comforting, guiding and
reassuring our hope.

Hope assures us that God is in control.

Hope is the light that guides us out of the darkness.

Hope allows us to praise God with gratitude in all
circumstances.

Hope gives us power to transform daily life.

What brings you hope?

#SeedsOfScripture #Advent #hope

Spend a few minutes to plant a quick Seed. Or stay longer and plant a whole garden.

Each post is a brief scriptural thought that will grow as you let it take root in your thoughts. If you have time, dig into one area of interest and plant a whole garden.

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Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:105

Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

Ephesians 3:17 (NLT)

I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.

John 15:5 (NLT)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.