Abound in Hope

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

Have you ever read a Bible verse and felt, “this is exactly what I need to read today”. Well, that was me this morning as the tiredness of the week attempted to steal the true joy, peace, and hope that only God can provide. As I read the word abound, I wanted to know more about it as it was linked to the word hope, which happens to be my middle name. I guess when my mom named me, she knew how important that word would resonate with me all my life.

The word abound correlates to overflow and what a wonderful existence to have an overflow of hope. Hope is the expectation of things to come that can provide great peace, even in the midst of adversity and weariness. Being filled with all joy can only be accomplished by allowing the Holy Spirit in, so that the power of the Holy Spirit can literally ooze out of us which can literally remove the worries and the cares of life that this current world beats down on us.

I had to read this verse about 7 times just to take in what was being delivered. I had to ask God to let it be rooted in me and to carry it with me through this month. As I am minding my business and being more intentional about that, I am also protecting my heart, which is linked to the feelings and the fruit that I produce. And I desire for the overflow of hope, that I be filled with God’s joy and peace and that I make every effort to invite the Holy Spirit in this journey of my life. But it takes the act of intention, the casting off of troubles and placing His armor on each and every day.

Can I get an Amen?

Stay Encouraged.

Seek Him. Obey the Call. Complete Your Assignment.