Moving with Expectation
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead…
1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)
Sometimes, when I sit at a red light, I hope the light doesn't turn green because I'm texting someone, checking the weather or looking for a song or podcast. But more often than not, when I'm stopped at a stop sign or red light, I'm anxious for the person in front of me to go. Get moving! It's the urge of leaning forward, ready to hit the gas. Can you relate? This is the feeling of expectation—to anticipate going somewhere with God that's so meaningful you can't wait for the light to turn green.
Today's Scripture was written to followers of Christ during a time of heavy persecution. Identifying with Christ cost many people their lives. Peter was encouraging his readers not to be overcome with fear or despair but to live with expectation, even in the midst of trial and suffering. No matter what you're going through, may you remember that by God's mercy, we have been given new life and a living hope. These are things to celebrate! And it is with this expectation we are able to move forward.
Application: Think of a time when you were so excited about something you just couldn't wait! Take yourself back to the moment, event or season. How did you feel? Put words to it. Now, consider what it would be like if you woke up every day with that same sense of anticipation and excitement. Ask God to fill you with the expectation that He's on the move, and you get to be a part of what He's doing.
Prayer: Dear God, I pray the same Spirit who turned chaos into beauty at creation would move in my life so powerfully that I can't wait for what's next. Help me keep my eyes focused on You so I will live with an overwhelming sense of expectation to experience more of You and the life You have for me. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?