Hope ???

What does the whimsical word hope mean? Do we just use the word as a filler word or is there true meaning to the word hope. Well, I decided to look the word up in the merriamwebster.com and this what one dictionary’s definition said.

 intransitive verb

1: to cherish a desire with anticipation

2: archaic : Trust

                                                                                          transitive verb      

1: to desire with expectation of obtainment                           

2: to expect with confidence : Trust

                                                                                                                    

Noun

— hope against hope

1: to hope without any basis for expecting fulfillment

Examples of HOPE

1.             No one knows yet if anyone survived the crash. At this point, we can only hope.

2.             I hope you're feeling better soon.

3.             That's what she hoped would happen.

4.             Let's hope that the strike ends soon.

5.             I hope I haven't bored you.

6.             Everyone in your family is well, I hope.

Origin of HOPE

Middle English, from Old English hopian; akin to Middle High German hoffen to hope: First Known Use: before 12th century

Now that we understand the definition; I also asked a few friends what they thought hope meant and one person said freedom. Another one said it meant nothing to them and yet another said anticipation for a wish.

I believe “hope” is a feeling of anticipation inside. The anticipation could be a dream, desire, or a prayer. I wonder what the Bible says about hope. 

There are two verses that spurred my heart on with joy.

Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 5:2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

This verse gives me a feeling of being protected.

Psalm 33:18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, On those who hope for His loving kindness,

This verse gives me strength, courage, boldness to carry on.

Psalm 31:24 Be strong, and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD.

What about this one? I truly feel; I have more endurance, comfort, confidence in the face of death.

1 Thessalonian 4:13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve, as do the rest who have no hope.

I love this verse and how my confidence soars when I share my faith.

1 Timothy 4:10 For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

I don't believe the word hope is something we can smell, taste, ear or touch. But I do believe the word hope is a desire to feel something. I also think hope comes from the heart, just like faith.