When you think about your future, does it leave you feeling hopeless instead of hopeful? Christ follower, your future is not as hopeless as it may seem. But before we consider your future, let’s look at our beginning.
The Bible begins in Genesis chapter one, verse one, with the words, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” And this very first chapter concludes in verse 31 with the statement, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. …” The word “good” in Hebrew is towb, meaning pleasing or beautiful. We see all life began and was created completely good or pleasing. However, we know things didn’t stay all “good” for long. Sin entered the world through man’s disobedience to God, and we have known much of what’s unpleasing and painful ever since.
The span of time between beginnings and endings reminds me of when my husband Craig and I watched a movie that was recommended to us. It had a compelling beginning. The opening scene lured us in and piqued our interest in this “somewhat” true story. But although the movie began well, the plot began to progress very slowly. Think of watching a snail race. Got the idea? Why did we continue watching this disappointing cinematic production? Here’s why: for the end result—the deep satisfaction of seeing justice, the perseverance payoff, and triumphant redemption.
As the movie neared its end, we were desperately ready to see the main character’s victory against his many horrific obstacles. Sadly, that was not this movie. The end was a disaster. Our “hero” was (for the most part) overwhelmed and defeated. Talk about feeling hopeless—what a disappointment!
Now, I don’t know what kind of beginning or life-plot you’ve lived through. Maybe it was beautiful. For some, I know it has been painful and ugly. Either way, our lives are like movies—they have a beginning and an end. Yet, if you’re a Christ follower, I want to encourage you with some very good news: In Christ, our end is better than our beginning.
Hebrews 10:32-36 NIV is a great encouragement to us all (my emphasis added): Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you endured in a great conflict full of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, [Why?] because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence [hope]; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.
@amygroeschel
Take heart. You might be feeling hopeless today, but your life is not a poorly written movie. Your life is written by the Lord of Creation. Persevere, so you will receive what He has promised. Your confidence, your hope, is Jesus. He is preparing a better ending for you! When you know your end is better than your beginning, you’ll be able to endure what’s between. And remember, our end isn’t really the end—it’s a new beginning, one with no end.
