A Living Hope

The View From Above: Thoughts to Help With Everyday Life

July 22, 2026

Pastor Paul Stephens

A Living Hope

The Word of God is so full and rich with revelation that flows directly from His throne straight into our hearts at just the right time to encourage, edify, build up, and strengthen us.

This is what struck me in my devotional Bible reading this morning:

Scripture Focus

1 Peter 1:3-5

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”

This reminds all of us that our salvation and our future in heaven are secure.

No one can take that inheritance from us apart from our own sin and disobedience.

Despite earthly struggles, setbacks, and even our own failures, we have been granted an eternal inheritance.

Our faith is actively guarded by God’s power until the end of time.

What great mercy!

Abundant mercy has resulted in our spiritual birth and has given us a glorious hope—a living hope.

Therefore, I have confidence, and that wonderful, sustaining confidence was refreshed and renewed as I read this passage.

I had to stop, pause, and meditate on what I had just read.

It became so real to me all over again.

Unlike the fleeting, unsatisfying, and empty things this world offers, our hope is living and active because it is anchored in the resurrection of a living Savior.

That living Savior, Jesus Christ, abides, dwells, and lives in us.

And that will be the case for all eternity.

This overwhelms me, so I have plenty to ponder and meditate on today.

I hope this passage gives you pause and causes you to express to God the gratitude that it deserves.

Today’s Challenge

Spend a few moments today reflecting on the hope you have in Jesus Christ.

Remember that your inheritance is reserved in heaven, your faith is being kept by the power of God, and your Savior is alive.

Let that living hope renew your confidence, strengthen your heart, and fill you with gratitude as you walk through whatever challenges today may bring.