The expectancy of something good!
Romans 8:23-25 But we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Hope is DULL or ACUTE by what it is focused on.
Psalm 130:7 Put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with Him is abundant redemption.
For hope’s focus to SHARPEN it needs a defined object.
Lamentations 3:22-24 the Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed will never cease, for His compassions are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I have hope in Him.”
Hope’s focus INCREASES through daily experience.
Psalm 71:14-18 I will always have hope; I will praise God more and more. My mouth will tell of your righteousness, of your salvation all day long, though I know not its measure. I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign Lord; I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone. Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.
Hope’s focus SPREADS by those who know its wonders.