In Romans 5:1-2, Paul wrote about how we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God even through difficult times. “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” The believer’s hope is a guarantee that the promises of God will not fail and will be completely fulfilled.

When we read on in verses 3-5, we see that our hope expands. “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Our hope is tested and it expands as we go through trials and tribulations of life. The believer’s hope is a guarantee that the promises of God will not fail and will be fulfilled.

In Romans 12:12 we see that we endure difficult situations and we continue in prayerful expectation because of the hope we have in Christ. “Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer.”

In 1 John 3:3 we find that because Jesus is in us and is a living hope, this hope within us is a cleansing agent. “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure. The hope we have in Christ gives us reason to rejoice.