Establishing a Rhythm of Hope This Christmas
Summary
The excitement of the Christmas season is upon us, and as we embark on our new series, "The Rhythms of Christmas," we begin by exploring the rhythm of hope. Just as rhythm in music provides a foundation and culture that shapes the entire piece, the rhythm of our lives is defined by the foundations we lay and the cultures we establish. This Advent season, we focus on hope as a foundational rhythm in our lives. The question we must ask ourselves is whether our lives have a rhythm of hope. Is hope a foundational element in our lives, and do we trust it?
Romans 15:13 reminds us that God is the God of hope, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can abound in hope. This hope is not a fleeting experience but a constant presence that accompanies us everywhere. Jeremiah 29:11 and 1 Peter 1:3 further emphasize that God’s plans for us are filled with hope, and through Jesus Christ, we have a living hope. This hope is not based on a Savior who died but on one who is risen and living.
However, hope can fail us if misplaced. If we put our hope in the things of this world, such as wealth or material possessions, we will be disappointed because these are temporary and fleeting. Similarly, placing our hope in people, whether it be a spouse, a leader, or even a pastor, will lead to disappointment because humans are fallible. Our hope must be in Jesus alone, as He is the only unfailing source.
As we partake in communion, let us reflect on where our hope lies. Is Jesus our true source of hope, and are we faithful to Him? This Christmas season, let us establish a rhythm of hope in our lives, trusting in Jesus as our foundation and source.
Key Takeaways:
- The rhythm of hope is foundational in our lives, much like rhythm in music. It shapes and directs everything else. We must ask ourselves if our lives have a rhythm of hope and if we trust it. [49:14]
- God is the God of hope, and through the Holy Spirit, we can abound in hope. This hope is not a one-time experience but a constant presence that accompanies us everywhere. [49:14]
- Hope will fail if placed in worldly things, as they are temporary and fleeting. True hope must be rooted in Jesus, who is eternal and unfailing. [53:50]
- Placing hope in people, whether a spouse, leader, or pastor, will lead to disappointment because humans are fallible. Our hope must be in Jesus alone. [58:07]
- Our source of hope determines its power. We must ensure that Jesus is our primary source and that we are faithful to Him, seeking Him first in every situation. [01:04:42]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[41:12] - Introduction to the Series
[41:59] - The Rhythms of Christmas
[43:28] - Understanding Rhythm
[45:52] - Joy to the World Experiment
[48:06] - The Power of Rhythm
[49:14] - The Rhythm of Hope
[51:44] - Hope Through Jesus
[52:31] - The Source of Hope
[53:50] - Hope in Worldly Things
[55:13] - The Temporary Nature of Worldly Things
[57:28] - Hope in People
[58:47] - The Role of Spouses
[01:00:24] - Hope in Leaders and Groups
[01:02:52] - Hope in Political Parties
[01:03:47] - Communion and Reflection
[01:09:51] - Closing Prayer and Communion
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Rhythm of Hope
Bible Reading:
- Romans 15:13
- Jeremiah 29:11
- 1 Peter 1:3
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Observation Questions:
1. According to Romans 15:13, what role does the Holy Spirit play in our experience of hope? [49:14]
2. How does Jeremiah 29:11 describe God's plans for us, and what is the significance of hope in this context? [49:14]
3. In 1 Peter 1:3, what is the source of our "living hope," and how is it different from other types of hope? [49:14]
4. What examples were given in the sermon about misplaced hope, and why do these examples lead to disappointment? [53:50]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of a "rhythm of hope" compare to the rhythm in music, and why is it important to establish this rhythm in our lives? [49:14]
2. What does it mean for hope to be a "constant presence" in our lives, and how can this influence our daily actions and decisions? [49:14]
3. Why is it crucial to place our hope in Jesus rather than in worldly things or people, according to the sermon? [53:50]
4. How can the idea of Jesus as a "living hope" transform our understanding of hope and its role in our lives? [49:14]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current life rhythm. Is hope a foundational element, and how can you ensure it remains so? [49:14]
2. Identify areas in your life where you might be placing hope in temporary or worldly things. What steps can you take to shift your hope to Jesus? [53:50]
3. Consider a time when you placed hope in a person and were disappointed. How can this experience guide you in placing your hope in Jesus instead? [58:07]
4. How can you cultivate a "living hope" in your daily life, especially during challenging times? What practical actions can you take to remind yourself of this hope? [49:14]
5. During this Christmas season, what specific practices can you adopt to reinforce the rhythm of hope in your family or community? [49:14]
6. When faced with a problem, what is your first response? How can you train yourself to turn to God first, making Him your primary source of hope? [01:04:42]
7. As you partake in communion, how can you use this time to reflect on where your hope lies and make any necessary adjustments to align it with Jesus? [01:03:47]
Devotional
Day 1: Establishing a Rhythm of Hope
The rhythm of hope is foundational in our lives, much like rhythm in music. It shapes and directs everything else. We must ask ourselves if our lives have a rhythm of hope and if we trust it. [49:14]
Hope is not just a fleeting feeling or a temporary state of mind; it is a foundational rhythm that can shape the entirety of our lives. Just as a musical piece relies on rhythm to create harmony and direction, our lives require a rhythm of hope to guide us through the complexities and challenges we face. This rhythm is not something that happens by chance; it is intentionally cultivated and nurtured. As we enter the Advent season, we are invited to examine whether hope is a consistent and trusted presence in our lives. Are we allowing hope to be the foundation upon which we build our daily experiences and future aspirations? By establishing a rhythm of hope, we align ourselves with a divine cadence that brings peace and purpose.
Romans 15:13 reminds us that God is the God of hope, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can abound in hope. This hope is not a one-time experience but a constant presence that accompanies us everywhere. [49:14]
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." (Romans 15:13, ESV)
Reflection: What daily practices can you incorporate to ensure that hope becomes a foundational rhythm in your life? How can you remind yourself to trust in this hope even when circumstances seem challenging?
Day 2: Abounding in Hope Through the Holy Spirit
God is the God of hope, and through the Holy Spirit, we can abound in hope. This hope is not a one-time experience but a constant presence that accompanies us everywhere. [49:14]
Hope is not a transient emotion that comes and goes with the changing tides of life. Instead, it is a steadfast presence that can accompany us through every season and circumstance. This enduring hope is made possible through the power of the Holy Spirit, who fills us with joy and peace as we trust in God. The Holy Spirit acts as a divine conduit, allowing us to abound in hope even when the world around us seems uncertain or overwhelming. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can experience a hope that is not dependent on external factors but is rooted in the eternal promises of God. This hope becomes a guiding light, illuminating our path and providing strength and courage to face whatever lies ahead.
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all." (2 Thessalonians 3:16, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways can you invite the Holy Spirit to fill you with hope today? How can you cultivate a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit to sustain your hope in challenging times?
Day 3: The Futility of Worldly Hope
Hope will fail if placed in worldly things, as they are temporary and fleeting. True hope must be rooted in Jesus, who is eternal and unfailing. [53:50]
The world offers many sources of hope, from wealth and success to relationships and achievements. However, these sources are inherently temporary and can often lead to disappointment. When we place our hope in worldly things, we set ourselves up for failure because these things are fleeting and cannot provide the lasting fulfillment we seek. True hope, on the other hand, is found in Jesus Christ, who is eternal and unfailing. Unlike the transient nature of worldly pursuits, Jesus offers a hope that is steadfast and enduring. By rooting our hope in Him, we can experience a sense of security and peace that transcends the uncertainties of life. This hope is not dependent on circumstances but is anchored in the unchanging nature of God's love and promises.
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (1 John 2:15, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on areas in your life where you may be placing hope in worldly things. How can you shift your focus to root your hope in Jesus instead?
Day 4: The Fallibility of Human Hope
Placing hope in people, whether a spouse, leader, or pastor, will lead to disappointment because humans are fallible. Our hope must be in Jesus alone. [58:07]
It is natural to look to others for support and guidance, but placing our ultimate hope in people can lead to disappointment. Humans, by nature, are fallible and imperfect, and even the most well-intentioned individuals can let us down. Whether it is a spouse, a leader, or a pastor, relying solely on people for hope can result in unmet expectations and heartache. Instead, our hope must be anchored in Jesus, who is the only unfailing source. Jesus is constant and unchanging, offering a hope that is not subject to the limitations and failures of humanity. By placing our hope in Him, we can experience a sense of assurance and stability that is not dependent on the actions or decisions of others.
"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man." (Psalm 118:8, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a time when you placed your hope in someone and were disappointed. How can you learn from that experience and shift your hope to Jesus, who is unfailing?
Day 5: Jesus as the Source of True Hope
Our source of hope determines its power. We must ensure that Jesus is our primary source and that we are faithful to Him, seeking Him first in every situation. [01:04:42]
The source of our hope greatly influences its strength and resilience. When our hope is rooted in Jesus, it becomes a powerful force that can sustain us through life's challenges. Jesus, as the risen and living Savior, offers a hope that is both eternal and unshakeable. By making Him our primary source of hope, we align ourselves with a divine power that transcends the limitations of this world. This requires a conscious decision to seek Jesus first in every situation, trusting in His wisdom and guidance. As we remain faithful to Him, we can experience a hope that is not only enduring but transformative, shaping our lives in profound and meaningful ways.
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord." (Jeremiah 17:7, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to make Jesus your primary source of hope? How can you actively seek Him first in your daily decisions and actions?
Quotes
"Everything else in our life is based on the foundations we lay and the cultures we establish. And we're going to break this out differently every week with each different focus of the Advent season. But this first Sunday at Advent, we're jumping into this series by looking at hope, as I said. And more specifically, the rhythm of hope. And the question that everybody needs to ask, so ask your neighbor, repeat this to them, is this. Does your life have a rhythm of hope? No participation. Does your life have a rhythm of hope? Is it a foundation in your life? What is your foundation and culture regarding hope?" [00:49:14] (37 seconds)
"Our God is the God of hope. And we can abound in hope. This whole thing about having hope in our lives, it's not just an experience. It's not a one-time thing. It's not while you're at a specific location. It can walk with you. We can abound in hope and be hopeful people everywhere we go. Jeremiah 29 and 11. Any of you know it and have memorized it? It says, For I know the thoughts that I have or think towards you, says the Lord. Thoughts of peace and not of evil to give you a future and a what? Hope." [00:50:23] (30 seconds)
"Hope only comes through Jesus. I don't care how many times you come to church. I don't care if you've been at Harvest Fellowship since day one. If he is not the Lord of your life, I have no hope to offer you. Because our hope comes through Jesus." [00:51:13] (13 seconds)
"There are two things that determine the power of your hope. The source of your hope and your faithfulness to trust that source. I'm going to give you a second. If you're taking notes or taking a picture, I love it when you take your cameras out and do that, by the way. That inspires me." [00:52:31] (15 seconds)
"Hope will fail you if you put your hope in the things of this world. The 39th Psalm, starting with verse number six, says, We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth, have you ever seen this? Not knowing who will spend it. And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you." [00:53:50] (30 seconds)
"Everything of this world is temporary. And so if you're putting your hope in anything in this world, you have a fleeting source. You have a temporary. You have a temporary source because that cannot sustain you. It can't." [00:55:27] (15 seconds)
"Hope will fail you if you put your hope in a person. Let that marinate for a second and we're going to unpack it. Hope will fail you if you put your hope in a person. And I'm going to say any person. Any person." [00:57:56] (16 seconds)
"Stop putting your hope in your husband. Stop putting your hope in your wife. Instead, put your hope in Jesus. And then you will be free to go out and be the best husband and wife you can be." [00:59:11] (12 seconds)
"Don't put your hope in a leader. We've said for years here at Harvest Fellowship, I pray that you know that I'm a human being. And my wife will attest to the fact that I make mistakes. Every now and then I have a bad attitude. Very rarely. She's making a face. Every now and then I have a temper. Every now and then I get selfish. Right? Why? Because I'm human." [01:00:38] (27 seconds)
"An honest question, incredibly honest open question is, where's your source? And even to the believers in the room, I got to ask and just challenge, are you sure that you're faithful to your source?" [01:04:05] (18 seconds)
"If he is my third, fourth, fifth, sixth, or whatever, then really, being honest, whatever came before him is my source." [01:05:38] (10 seconds)
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