Higher Hope

Alumna gymnast, Tori, recently recalled with us about her crazy health and injury issues during her college career which caused her to re-evaluate what she really believes about God. Through intense introspection while during her many hospital stays, Tori began to realize her other identities (e.g., student, athlete) were superseding her primary spiritual identity in Christ. Sports and school will eventually end, but Kingdom citizenship is forever.

Tori then exhorted us to turn to God, believe the gospel, and hold tightest to what will ultimately last. It’s only a bigger, better, higher hope that will enable us to faithfully—and even joyfully—endure tough times.

What’s more, true freedom and rest only comes with Jesus:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30, MSG)

And here other verses to memorize and apply:

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12

“For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:8-9)