Hope
Theological Definition The theological definition for hope is the expectation of the fulfillment of God’s plan for each human being. It provides purpose and direction …show more content…
“The Bible is a story of present hope for those who are discouraged, despondent, or have no purpose in life” (Towns, 2007). All those that read the Bible are pointed towards Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. The Old Testament provides the foundation of hope for the coming of the birth of Christ and the New Testament fulfills the promises of God and inspires the hope of what is yet to come.
Practical Application The practical application of hope is eternal life. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11, English Standard Version). Hope drives the need to do and be better for God and to follow the examples of Jesus Christ. The hope of eternal life is the wind in the sail of a boat, pushing it forwards and guiding it towards its destination.
Prayer
Theological Definition The theological definition of prayer is an intimate connection and conversation between God and each human being in which God’s will is revealed. “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:6, English Standard Version). Prayer is to be a humbling experience, where devotion is at the heart of the …show more content…
“The Lord’s prayer contains everything a Christian must know and every way that a Christian must pray” (Towns, 2007). The Lord’s Prayer, taught by Jesus to his followers, is form of worship believers can engage in that truly follows in the examples of private prayer as shown by Jesus. Therefore, prayer like the Lord’s Prayer should be done every day in order for believers to continue to seek the path of God’s glory and know His will for life.
Conclusion
Hope and prayer cannot exist without each other. Hope requires believers to be patient but engaged in their lives and environments in order to know the fulfillment of God’s plan for them. Prayer is an intimate conversation between a believer and God. It is through prayer that God’s will is revealed and hope is anchored in the heart of a believer. Through the Lord’s Prayer and quite reflection, prayer allows the noise of the tempting and sinful world to be drowned out. Hope gives believers purpose and direction to always look to God and follow in Jesus’