Daily Devotion April 11--The Season of "Without"

April 11

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

So many things are running through my head.  I feel like a child that has been in perpetual time-out.  I  don't mind being home, if it is by my choice.  Then suddenly it dawned on me---we are in a season of "without".

Students are without the daily routine of attending school regardless of the level.  They are without their friends.  Many people, especially those who live alone or in residential care, are without visitors.  Christians are without weekly, in the church house services.  Our choir is without their Easter cantata.  Families are without their family reunions.  Athletes are without their games. We are without our shopping trips and excursions and just hanging out with others.  Yes, we are without many things.  But, many are without hope.

Even though I am having to do without many of the things that make my life pleasant and fun and fulfilling, I am not without hope.  All those who know Jesus as their personal Saviour, also should not be without hope.  We have hope of joy and peace.  We have hope of knowing this is all in God's plan and that He will work everything for the good of those who love Him.  We are not without.  We are full.

As you go through the day today, remember that even if we are without many things, we are never without HOPE,