We have caught a glimpse of the glory of God in Jesus Christ.

2. We have a hope that thrives in the context of suffering

Note the pattern here: suffering brings about perseverance; perseverance brings about proven character; and proven character brings about hope.

A faith that is tested and proven is one that is strong in hope. It is difficult to know the reality and genuineness of your faith and commitment to Christ unless it is tested. Suffering is the crucible of testing. As you continue to look to Christ in suffering — honoring him and not denying him, you persevere. As you persevere, your character — i.e. your true nature — is proven. Out of this experience of God's grace that sustains you in suffering and causes you to persevere, your hope is made alive.

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How can we hope in God's promise of the future if we believe He had failed us in the present?

Our hope in God is not in the resolution or removal of every distress of life. Our hope in the glorious God of the future is the glorious God who sustains us in the present.

While we should work hard to oppose every injustice of human society that brings about despair, we must recognize that the world where 'everything is all right" is a future world.

3. We have a hope that doesn't disappoint.

How many problems have appeared to be resolved only to reoccur again? How many times have we heard, "I won't hurt you or disappoint you again?" How many countries have enjoyed freedom from tyranny only to be enslaved again?

Hope that is centered in a fallen world is destined to fail. Our hope is in an immutable sovereign God who love is everlasting and his mercy endures forever.

Our experience in the gospel today is a preview of the glory to come. How many times have you watched a preview of the coming attraction only to be disappointed by the actual event?

The Bible guarantees you that you will not be disappointed when you see Jesus at the throne of his father in all his resplendent glory. This glory is so brilliant that the New World and the New Jerusalem need no sun, moon, and stars, or manufactured light of any kind because the brilliance of God's glory will illumine the universe.

We have a hope that is rooted in the gospel. When we were yet powerless, God's grace came to redeem sinners. His grace in the gospel demonstrates his boundless love. This grace spares us from the wrath of God for we are no longer His enemies.

This is why we have hope. If you have not come to God through Jesus Christ, then you are 'without hope and without God in this world.'

If you have come to Christ, then you have hope in the glory of God, you have a hope that is nurtured in suffering, and have a hope that never disappoints.

"May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." (2 Thess 2:16-17)

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John Davis is Pastor of Grace Fellowship Chapel in Long Island City, NY.