A Prayer about Daring to Hope for What We Cannot See

For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? Romans 8:24

Heavenly Father,

What profound hope we have 

because of our Savior’s 

sinless life, 

sacrificial death, 

secure resurrection, 

and sustaining ascension. 

It’s true, we can’t physically see this hope with our own eyes. 

It’s true, this hope isn’t like 

hoping it doesn’t rain on our parade, 

hoping the boss offers the promotion, 

or hoping the scan reveals “no evidence of disease.” 

This hope focuses on the future glory, 

yet to be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). 

This hope fixes itself in the redemption and adoption 

Jesus secured for us (Romans 8:23). 

This hope wrestles with present suffering 

realistically and patiently, 

neither denying the pain 

nor caving to cynicism (Romans 8:18). 

This hope helps us to wait with patience in earthly trials—

snarly traffic, 

airport delays, 

and long recoveries. 

This hope helps us to wait with patience 

for our forever future 

in the new heavens and new earth—

the day of no more pain, death, and tears (Revelation 21:4).  

Thank you, Father, for calling us to a hope that will surely save.

Read Romans 8:18-25.