“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.” 1 Corinthians 15:19-23 (KJV)
Optimism is simply positive thinking without certainty. It is more wishful in nature and completely distinct from hope. The believer’s hope, however, begins in confident faith and continually looks forward to the day when divine promises are fulfilled. Hope is the confident conviction that, despite Adam’s death, Christ’s resurrected life will prevail. We confidently acknowledge that because of Christ’s “firstfruit” the best is still ahead.
Our hope in Christ is not limited to this life. He is coming back for us and because he lives, we will live also!
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for Christ the first-fruit of resurrection. Thank you for our hope in him. Empower us with the faith and hope that we will also be made alive. Enable us to walk confidently in this promise. Help us to share this hope with others. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN
Let us praise God for the resurrection of Christ and live in hope,