The reason for my hope
It’s not keeping up with the Joneses or discovering some secret new formula or variation on a theme that gives me hope. Neither is it to be found in the trappings of a religious system, no matter how attractive it might appear, but my hope is found in the simple recognition that I am loved and accepted by God unconditionally and certainly undeservedly. It seems to me that so often we fall short of finding a real relationship with God because of our dependence on the outward to authenticate our faith rather than the inward discovery of His grace.
Walking in that grace has meant, for me, experiencing God’s amazing provision in the face of circumstances that scream out anything but the goodness of God. He has spoken into my situation remarkably. Of course, there have been other times when the answers have not been forthcoming, but I’m thankful that he has brought the assurance of His presence. Looking back, this certainly achieved more than a temporary quick-fix solution would have done.
Often, as a writer of songs, I find coming back to the stark truth that my approval in life is solely based on God’s evaluation, not my own, has produced in me a response that often becomes a new song or expression of gratitude. That’s my bedrock; that’s where my inspiration flows from. A grace-based relationship offers up endless possibilities for us to be creative in the way we live our lives and express our thanks back to Him. We can be free to be truly who God has made us to be instead of limiting ourselves by our own self-imposed restrictions we become alive to the realm of possibilities engendered out of grace and faith.
Without grace, my life becomes an endless treadmill of trying to do the right thing to please God. I still need reminding, and at times still look elsewhere for acceptance, but deep down I know that it’s God’s grace that is my hope, sustenance and strength and that grace is found in Christ who reaches out to me, who shines His light in my darkness and who is more committed to me than I will ever be to Him. This is the reason for my hope.