Full Bloom!

Flowers blooming in the yard can be a great source of joy. When they are planted it is with the HOPE they will grow strong and soon beautify the area where they have been placed. With the spring rains and more frequent shining of the sun, the buds begin to form until, through the gradual unfolding of the petals, the blossoms open up into full bloom to display their beautiful colors. And even where there may be some weeds growing, it is still possible for a flower to bloom vibrantly.

In the second to the last chapter of the book of Romans, Paul stated…
“May THE GOD OF HOPE FILL YOU WITH ALL JOY AND PEACE in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may ABOUND IN HOPE.” ( Romans 15:13 ESV)

The word translated “abound” in this passage is a word which points to exceeding a fixed number. It is a word which was also used for a flower going from bud to full bloom. A proper focus on the HOPE we have from God is a HOPE which is not intended to merely bud, but to gradually unfold to reveal every colorful petal of HOPE that is ours.

HOPE! What would our life be like if we had no HOPE? There is nothing very vibrant about the life of those who feel they have none. It is true life has its “weeds” which can detract from HOPE if we allow them. However, with our focus set on the things of God we can still bloom brilliantly and vibrantly to His glory as we bask in the shining of His Son.

Since God is the “God of HOPE”, it is from Him we must continue to seek the fruition of our HOPE. The HOPE this world offers will wither as the grass and fade as the flowers, but as God’s eternal Word stands forever (note Isaiah 40:6-8), so does the HOPE to which it directs. It is His HOPE filling our life with joy and peace that helps our life come to full bloom. May that HOPE truly abound in us by the power of His Holy Spirit.

Have a great day BEING A FRAGRANT FLOWER OF FLOURISHING FAITH!
Carl

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