PURPOSE AND HOPE

“According to my earnest EXPECTATION and HOPE that in nothing I shall be ashamed” – Philippians 1:20a

By Divine Design, PURPOSE and HOPE are intricately connected: “According to my earnest EXPECTATION and HOPE that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death” (Phi.1:20). Paul’s purpose or intense expectation was that “Christ is preached” (v.18). In this he rejoiced, hopeful that even his bonds of suffering will advance this soul-saving purpose. With Purpose and Hope comes confidence: “And being confident of this, I know that I shall remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy of faith” (v.25). Hope in God ensures that no matter the suffering, we are never ashamed; we never give up on purpose!

Purpose is the reason for our being; why we are on this planet. Each of us was born by God’s Purpose and for His purpose. When as Believers in Christ we become clear about the reason for our being, the vision of the future becomes sharper, and Hope is awakened, rekindled, and sustained. Knowing our Purpose gives so much more meaning to life: rejuvenated energy and passion to contribute something unique to the world. The unveiling or revelation of Divine Purpose is called Divine Vision. Purpose is therefore a catalyst and driver of Hope. People of Purpose or Vision are People of Hope.

God loves us and wants us to experience abundant and eternal life through knowing Him. He created us in His own Image; and for this purpose Jesus came, to give us Life (Jh.10:10b). It is in knowing Him in a personal relationship, not just knowing about Him, that we find Purpose and Hope. Relationship with God is our foremost and Ultimate Purpose. We were created in His Image to relate with Him. This is what will ultimately satisfy our souls and give us utmost fulfilment. St. Augustine famously prayed: “You [God] have made us for Yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in You”!

Life transcends pleasure seeking. The enjoyment doesn’t last; it’s momentary. Life is also more than material acquisition and accumulation. Every material possession will degrade, decay, fade away, or become obsolete. Life’s Purpose is not found in positions, possessions, pleasure, or popularity. Neither is Hope found in these. Coming to know Jesus helps us look and see beyond ourselves to find our Purpose in God. He removes any doubts about what matters, and what doesn’t. He gives our life clarity. Then, on the platform of Purpose, Hope becomes alive, active, and dynamic. Finding Purpose and Hope is particularly relevant and vital in the midst of the world’s troubles and tribulations.

Afflictions, trials and suffering cannot be totally ruled out from human experience; and they are not reserved for just some people. Even the righteous face life’s challenges, but deliverance is assured: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psa.34:19). However they come, trials may well be the platform for unveiling our purpose or the stepping-stone to achieving greatness. Joseph’s life is a classic case: From the pit, through Potiphar’s house, down to the prison, he never lost sight of his purpose and therefore remained hopeful. The heroic accounts of Champions of Faith in Hebrews 11 parade people of Purpose who through indomitable Hope overcame seemingly insurmountable odds.

James 1: 2-4 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” God does not allow trials to crush us, but to unlock His potentials within us. Walking in Purpose and Hope, the most intense trials will produce character in us. Pressure refines Purpose. Insurmountable odds create unshakable convictions. Dark nights of the soul give birth to humble, hopeful hearts. Then, we can find safe ground again, gain from pain, and renew purpose. We’ll never be terrified by adversaries (v.28). We can write the next chapter in life’s story, without ever quitting, no matter the cost.