Living with Expectant Hope in Christ
Summary
Today’s focus is on living with an expectant hope rooted in Jesus Christ, a hope that transcends the temporary struggles and sufferings of this world. Drawing from Romans 8, the call is to recognize that the pain and challenges we face now are not even worth comparing to the future glory God has prepared for us. This future glory is not just a distant theological concept, but a living reality that shapes how we live, love, and persevere today. Our identity as citizens of heaven gives us a new perspective—our “passport” is already registered in eternity, and this truth should anchor us in hope, courage, and purpose.
The journey of faith is not about hype or fleeting emotions, but about a deep conviction that God is working all things for our good. Suffering is not denied or minimized; rather, it is acknowledged as part of the human experience, but always in the context of God’s greater plan for restoration and redemption. The biblical vision of heaven is not a passive escape, but the ultimate restoration of all things—no more pain, no more tears, and the fullness of joy in God’s presence. This hope is meant to fuel our daily lives, giving us the strength to endure, the humility to depend on God, and the passion to serve others.
Living with expectation means more than just waiting; it means preparing, declaring, and eliminating distractions that hinder what God wants to birth in and through us. Just as a pregnant woman’s life changes in anticipation of new life, so too should our lives reflect the reality of what God is forming within us. Expectation is evidenced by action—serving, giving, and living with purpose even in seasons of waiting or pain. The Holy Spirit empowers us in our weakness, interceding for us when words fail, and turning our groans into hope-filled anticipation.
Ultimately, the call is to live with eyes fixed on Jesus, anchored in the hope of future glory, and to let that hope transform every area of our lives. Even when all we have is a sigh or a groan, we are invited to bring it to God, trusting that He is working in ways we cannot yet see. One day, we will look back and see that every struggle was worth it, and the joy of God’s presence will far outweigh any pain we endured.
Key Takeaways
- Future Glory Outweighs Present Suffering
The reality of future glory in Christ reframes our present pain. Paul teaches that the sufferings of this life are not even worth comparing to what God has prepared for us. This eternal perspective gives us courage to endure, knowing that our story does not end with suffering but with restoration and joy in God’s presence. [01:00:12]
- Expectation Requires Active Preparation and Elimination
True expectation is not passive; it leads to tangible changes in our lives. Just as pregnancy brings about new habits and priorities, so does spiritual expectation call us to eliminate distractions and prepare for what God is birthing in us. This means letting go of old patterns, relationships, or comforts that hinder God’s purpose, and making room for His new work. [01:36:02]
- Satisfaction Is Found Only in Jesus
The world offers many temporary pleasures, but none can truly satisfy the deep longing of our souls. C.S. Lewis observed that if nothing in this world can satisfy us, it’s because we were made for another world. Only Jesus can quench our thirst and fill the void within, and every other pursuit ultimately leaves us wanting more. [01:17:02]
- Serving in the Waiting Season
Waiting for God’s promises is not a time of inactivity, but of purposeful service. We are called to arise and shine, to serve others, and to pour ourselves out even when we are still in process. Serving is not just an act, but a lifestyle that reflects our identity as citizens of heaven and participants in God’s restoration story. [01:41:27]
- The Holy Spirit Groans With Us and Sustains Us
In seasons when words fail and pain overwhelms, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Our sighs and groans are not wasted; they are transformed by God into hope and new life. Even when all we can offer is our pain, God meets us there and brings forth something beautiful from our perseverance. [01:43:50]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Stories of God’s Faithfulness at Shiloh
[04:10] - The Power of Kingdom Culture
[07:30] - Romans 8: Suffering and Future Glory
[12:00] - Living with Expectation and Hope
[16:30] - Citizens of Heaven: Our True Identity
[20:15] - The Reality of Suffering and the Promise of Glory
[25:00] - What Is Biblical Restoration?
[29:00] - The Battle Between Pride and Humility
[33:00] - The Thirst for More: Only Jesus Satisfies
[37:00] - The Reality of Hell and the Urgency of Purpose
[41:00] - Expectation Evidenced by Declaration
[45:00] - Expectation Evidenced by Elimination
[48:00] - Preparation and Action in the Waiting
[51:00] - Serving as a Lifestyle
[54:00] - The Holy Spirit’s Role in Our Weakness
[57:00] - Birthing Future Glory Through Perseverance
[01:00:00] - Closing Prayer and Call to Expectant Hope
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living with Expectant Hope
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### Bible Reading
Romans 8:18-28 (ESV)
> 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
> 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.
> 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope
> 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.
> 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.
> 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
> 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?
> 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
> 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
> 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
> 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Romans 8:18, how does Paul compare present sufferings to future glory? What kind of language does he use to make his point?
2. In the sermon, what does the pastor say about the difference between “hype culture” and “hope culture”? ([01:01:30])
3. What are some of the ways the sermon describes the evidence of living with expectation, using the analogy of pregnancy? ([01:30:41])
4. How does the Holy Spirit help us in our weakness, according to Romans 8:26 and the sermon? ([01:42:00])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize that our present sufferings are “not worth comparing” to the glory to come? How might this perspective change the way someone faces hardship? ([01:00:12])
2. The sermon says, “Expectation is evidenced by action—serving, giving, and living with purpose even in seasons of waiting or pain.” Why do you think action is so closely tied to hope in the Christian life? ([01:39:44])
3. The pastor talks about “elimination”—letting go of distractions or old patterns to make room for what God wants to do. What are some examples from the sermon, and why is this step important? ([01:36:02])
4. The sermon mentions that the Holy Spirit “groans with us” and intercedes when we don’t have words. What does this teach us about God’s presence in our pain? ([01:43:50])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon says, “Living with expectation means more than just waiting; it means preparing, declaring, and eliminating distractions.” Is there a specific distraction or old pattern in your life that you sense God is asking you to let go of? What would it look like to take a step toward eliminating it this week? ([01:36:02])
2. The pastor uses the analogy of pregnancy to describe spiritual expectation—preparing, changing habits, and making room for new life. What is one practical way you can “prepare” for what God wants to do in your life right now? ([01:38:48])
3. Serving is described as a lifestyle, not just an act. In your current season, what is one way you can serve others—even if you feel like you’re still “in the waiting”? ([01:41:27])
4. The sermon says, “Only Jesus can quench our thirst and fill the void within, and every other pursuit ultimately leaves us wanting more.” Are there things you’ve been chasing for satisfaction that have left you empty? How can you turn your focus back to Jesus this week? ([01:17:02])
5. The pastor encourages us to bring even our sighs and groans to God, trusting that He is working in ways we cannot see. Is there an area of pain or struggle in your life where you need to invite the Holy Spirit to intercede for you? What would it look like to do that honestly in prayer? ([01:43:50])
6. The sermon challenges us to live as “citizens of heaven” with our “passport” already registered in eternity. How does this eternal perspective affect your daily decisions, relationships, or the way you handle challenges? ([01:03:30])
7. The pastor says, “One day, we will look back and see that every struggle was worth it, and the joy of God’s presence will far outweigh any pain we endured.” How does this promise encourage you in your current circumstances? ([01:45:25])
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Close in prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to fill your group with expectant hope, courage, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Devotional
Day 1: Expectant with Hope—Anchored in Future Glory
The sufferings and frustrations of this present life cannot compare to the future glory that God has prepared for His children. This hope is not based on fleeting emotions or hype, but on a deep conviction rooted in Jesus Christ. As believers, we are called to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our true citizenship is in heaven and that God is preparing something far greater than anything we can experience here on earth. This hope gives us courage to persevere, love boldly, and live differently, even in the midst of pain and uncertainty. [56:29]
Romans 8:18-25 (ESV)
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where present pain or frustration has made you lose sight of God’s promised future glory? How can you anchor your hope in Jesus today, even if you can’t see the outcome yet?
Day 2: Only Jesus Satisfies—Thirsting for True Fulfillment
Many chase after things that promise satisfaction—success, relationships, pleasure, recognition—but always end up thirsty for more. The world offers fleeting pleasures that never truly satisfy, leaving us empty and longing for something deeper. Jesus alone can quench the thirst of our souls, offering living water that brings lasting fulfillment. When we try to fill our lives with anything other than Him, we set ourselves up for disappointment and regret. True satisfaction is found only in a relationship with Jesus, who fills us with His presence and love. [01:20:54]
John 4:13-14 (ESV)
Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Reflection: What “thirsts” have you been trying to satisfy apart from Jesus? What would it look like for you to turn to Him today and let Him fill that longing?
Day 3: Expectant with Purpose—Letting Pain Shape Your Calling
God can use even the most difficult seasons of suffering and frustration to shape your purpose and calling. Sometimes, walking through pain gives you a greater revelation of heaven and a deeper compassion for others. Rather than letting pain drive you to despair or bitterness, let it drive you to your knees in surrender to Jesus. In Him, suffering is never wasted; it becomes the soil where beauty, purpose, and new life can grow. Allow God to use your story, even the hard parts, to bring hope and healing to others. [01:22:41]
Romans 8:28 (ESV)
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Reflection: Think of a painful experience you’ve walked through. How might God want to use that pain to shape your purpose or help someone else today?
Day 4: Expectant with Evidence—Living Out What You Carry
True expectation in Christ is not just a feeling or a declaration—it shows up in how you live. Just as a pregnant woman’s life changes in preparation for new life, so should your habits, relationships, and priorities shift when you are carrying God’s promises. This means eliminating distractions, preparing your heart, and letting your life reflect the hope and calling within you. Don’t just say you’re expecting; let it show in your actions, your service, and your worship. [01:37:45]
Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV)
To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Reflection: What is one specific habit, relationship, or distraction you need to let go of today so that you can make room for what God wants to birth in your life?
Day 5: Expectant While Waiting—Serving and Shining in the In-Between
Waiting on God’s promises is not a passive season; it’s a time to serve, shine, and prepare for what’s coming. Even when you don’t see the fulfillment yet, you can actively trust God by serving others, worshiping through your pain, and letting your life be a testimony of hope. The Holy Spirit empowers you to persevere, even when all you have is a sigh or a groan. As you wait, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, knowing that the glory ahead will far outweigh the struggles of today. [01:43:50]
Isaiah 61:1-3 (ESV)
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.
Reflection: While you wait for God’s promises, what is one way you can serve or shine for Jesus this week—right where you are?
Quotes
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