“And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Rom 5:5, NIV2)

A few months ago, we witnessed a powerful testimony in our church. Seven African sisters in faith danced to a song that conveys the message that Jesus breaks every chain. They were vividly portraying these chains being broken through the power of Jesus. Gone was slavery! Gone were addictions! Welcome Freedom!

As I looked around me, I saw many people with tears in their eyes, for many of us were reminded of where we have come from. We, too, were once in bondage, a bondage that seemed unshakeable, a bondage that made us totally and completely miserable. The day we cried out to our Savior, however, handing all of our problems to Him, something amazing happened: the shackles fell off for good. Gone were the addictions! Bye bye alcoholism! Bye bye drugs! Bye bye hatred and unforgiveness! Welcome utter love. Welcome to a life with a real purpose. Welcome inner peace! Welcome inner rest!

God has now taken up residence in us and filled us with assurance: “Every God-begotten person conquers the world’s ways. The conquering power that brings the world to its knees is our faith. The person who wins out over the world’s ways is simply the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.” (1John 5:4-5, MSG)

This Christmas, may we remember where we came from. We once were hopelessly in a big mess, then hope came into our lives, and He became our reality. Thank you Jesus!

“What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven-and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you’ll have it all-life healed and whole.” (1Pet 1:3-5, MSG)

May we remember those who are hopeless this Christmas and bring them the most precious gift ever: The gift of hope!

Will you join me?

Rob Chaffart

(To access the entire “Hope on the Horizon” devotional series, please click here.)