Joy in hope

In my Bible, at the top of the page beginning I Peter, it is noted that the key word in the book is suffering. And yet I turned to I Peter this morning to read the several uplifting verses about joy!

Why am I looking for verses about joy?

Because of suffering!

 God knows me so much better than I know myself.

In some strange way, the two go hand-in-hand. Opposite sides of the same coin.

Peter points this out with striking contrast:

In this you greatly rejoiced, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials . . . (1:6)

that the genuineness of your faith . . .though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus . . .though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible  . . .receiving the end of your faith--the salvation of your souls. (1:7-9)

Joy, then, does not spring from our current circumstances, but from our HOPE.

 

 

Keep hoping my friends. Never, never, never, never give up hope.