Overflowing with Hope
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.—Romans 15:13 (ESV)
Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”—John 20:29 (NIV)
Thomas had his doubts resolved by a personal visit from Jesus. Yet for most of us, when we face a dark night of the soul we must forge ahead with less dramatic proof. Through faith we can surpass our doubts and with confidence we can know that when we seek God we find Him.
My Lord and My God, help my unbelief! When my faith falters, help me believe.
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.—Romans 15:13 (ESV)
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.—Psalm 16:11 (ESV)
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.—1 Peter 3:3–4 (NIV)