Devotional - December 3, 2025
Scripture: Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
This is the first week of Advent (which means Arrival). It is during this time we focus on hope. When a Christian talks about having hope, they need to clarify for others what they mean. We do not say things like, I hope so... As though we are not sure if what we hope for is going to happen. We know what is happening come what may. We know our God and Saviour is with us and will never forsake us (Matthew 28:20, Hebrews 13:5). And, our focus is not on what may happen tomorrow. We do not worry about such things, we instead focus on doing what we need to do today (Matthew 6:34). God is able and there is nothing God cannot lead us through, even death (Philippians 2:8, I Corinthians 15:4). Therefore, when life wears us down, we remember what we have in Christ. It renews our faith and we are strengthened. Our strength returns and we ascend on the strong winds provided by the Spirit, Like the eagles in flight, we rise. Our hope is not based on what is happening around us. No, it is rooted in our relationship with God even amidst trying situations (Romans 12:12). This kind of hope is not generated through worldly measures. We are too smart to put our hope in this world. We know people, even with the best of intentions, are liable to fail or fall short (Psalms 146: 3-5). But as Christians, we embrace the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In our lives we go through all the highs and lows others do, but there is a limit to how low we go. The hope we have in Christ only allows for so much, and then our strength renews. Emotionally, we may still grieve or feel unsettled, but we know in the end where our hope is anchored. Many have not allowed this concept to arrive in their soul. Their relationship with God has not developed to this point. If you feel that is you, don't feel bad about it, go forward in the Spirit of Advent and claim all that it means for you. God wants you to have and live in this kind of hope (1 Peter 1:3).
Pray with me..., Holy God we devote this time of Advent to receiving more of Your Light in our souls. Guide us during this time. Hear us as we pray for those who are near and dear to our lives, our family and friends. We ask Your blessing upon them. We ask Your blessing on our church. May we be the people You call us to be, in Jesus name, Amen.
God’s Peace,
Pastor Brian
