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The Elements of Motivation (Part Three): Hope
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughHope, as a continuous motivator in the Christian life, stands alongside faith and love as one of the enduring virtues that propel us forward. It is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast certainty of future good, rooted in the revelation and relationship with God. This hope abides even into the Kingdom of God, where we will continually anticipate greater blessings and accomplishments as age upon age unfolds before us, driven by God's inexhaustible nature. Our hope is uniquely enduring because it stems from God's calling, uniting us into one body and transforming our outlook from pessimism to a confident, optimistic life filled with endless possibilities. Unlike the fluctuating hopes of the world, ours remains constant, not a mere flash in the pan, but a living expectation sustained by the reality of Jesus Christ and the Father, who are alive and exert sovereign control. This continuous hope flows from an inexhaustible Source, ensuring that no trial can quench our optimism for future good, and it expresses itself in trust, patience, endurance, and an eagerness to persevere. This unwavering hope serves as a defense, a motivator to protect us from losing sight of the glorious end of God's purpose. It propels us to endure whatever challenges come, driving us forward with the assurance that only the hopeful will persist, while the hopeless may give up. Anchored in Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us as High Priest, our hope stabilizes our lives, keeping us safe from spiritual drift amidst life's tempests. It enables us to endure, knowing that our wonderful goal is sure because it rests in God, who is absolute and all-powerful.
Hope and Faith
Sermon by Clyde FinkleaGod requires His people to put their faith in action, giving evidence of their hope, demonstrating godly behavior rather than abrasive carnal behavior.
Elements of Motivation (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the familiar triumvirate (faith, hope, and love), faith serves as the foundation, love serves as the goal, and hope serves as the great motivator.
The Resurrection From the Dead
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur lives revolve around the hope of a resurrection from the dead. Hope, deriving from Christ's resurrection, gives faith and love impetus and energy.
Don't Be a Prudent Agnostic
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSome of us, facing the stress of the times, may simply be going through the motions but losing every vestige of faith. We must strengthen our convictions.
Love and Fellowship
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughFellowship with God is the only antidote to overwhelming feelings of despair, doubt, and self-condemnation.