Hope: A missing factor to faith

Hope is often a missing factor to faith.

1 Corinthians 13:13 states, “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love …” (NET) Faith, hope and love have been given to us in Christ Jesus, but for us to see our faith and love work, we must understand biblical hope.

When the Bible uses the word hope, it means a joyful, earnest, intense, confident expectation. Faith is similar, in that it is a firm persuasion. Faith is the concrete assurance and confidence of the things hoped for. Faith and hope work together. With a firm persuasion, we confidently and joyfully expect God to be faithful to His promises. We then walk by faith, not by sight (nor circumstances). 

Our English usage of the word hope carries uncertainty with it. It is dependent upon circumstances and/or other people. Often our prayers are filled with uncertainty — we are not confident they will be answered. Our prayers become wishes rather than confident expectations.

Faith, without a confident expectation of God fulfilling His Word, will not produce fruit. It becomes clouded with doubt. For example, you can know a verse like Philippians 4:19, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Hallelujah! You get excited. But what happens when a need arises and the money is not there? Does your confidence waver?

That is the time to mix biblical hope with expectant faith! Instead of panicking, add a confident, joyful expectation to your firm persuasion that God is faithful. Meditate on the promise, then quote the verse with that confidence. Become assured and persuaded. Now you can rest in Him with peace of mind.

Biblical hope is the anchor of the soul and goes straight to God. Hebrews 6:19 “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil.” Biblical hope brings us into agreement with God and His promises. And Romans 5:5 tells us, ”Now hope does not disappoint …” Praise the Lord!

As we walk in love and add true hope to our faith in God and His Word, we will see His promises come to pass in our lives. Our God loves us and is faithful!

Nancy Insley is in leadership at Victory Life Church in Sandpoint. She has also authored two books on healing: “God’s Word on Healing” and “Faith Foundations for Healing.”