Romans 15:13

Last year we experienced a power outage at our house, so we fired up the generator. The gas engine roared outside as electricity was being produced inside of it. Inside the house, we plugged our extension cords into the refrigerator, freezer, and a few other essentials, but nothing happened. When I went outside to check things out, the extension cords weren't plugged into the generator yet. The source of power was ready and available, but we weren't experiencing the power yet because we weren't plugged in.

The hope, joy, and peace we receive from God is a power source that we are forever connected to once we are plugged in. Through faith and trust in Him, we are filled by His power. We will certainly continue to face challenging circumstances in this life, but we can be filled with hope and experience peace and joy that only the Holy Spirit could give us. When facing hard times, remember that you are connected to the source. Rely on his power to fill you and overflow with hope!

PASSAGE: Romans 15:13 - "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

PAUSE: Paul tied our hope to our faith and the power of the Holy Spirit. As we learned previously, our growth is tied to us and the Holy Spirit. When we believe, we not only overflow with hope, but His Spirit gives us joy and peace.

PRAYER: Christ Jesus, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Lord, your generosity is so gracious, I pray that today I may abound in hope!