Where Is Hope?
Where can we find hope when faced with fear, sorrow, weariness, oppression, temptation, and shame? Chris Anderson answers in one of his recent hymns I Run to Christ. The following is the Doctrinal Notes from this hymn. May God use these biblical truths to renew your hope in Christ.
“The Scriptures consistently point God’s people to Christ as the solution to all problems. Our Lord answers our greatest need by providing forgiveness and freedom from sin. But He helps with lesser needs, as well. He gives hope, comfort and rest to us when we are dealing with the multifaceted consequences of sin. He gives hope to the bereaved husband, joy to the depressed student, and strength to the weary mother as surely as He gives grace to the penitent sinner. Until Christ outlaws suffering at His return, He sustains us through it when we run to Him.
Hope to the Fearful (verse 1a)
God is a refuge in trouble (Psalm 46, et al). He commands us not to let our hearts be troubled, but instead to believe in Him (John 14:1). His promises—and even more so His death in our place—provide courage and comfort in trials (cf Rom 8:32).
Hope to the Sorrowful (verse 1b)
Christ provides peace that exceeds our understanding (Phil 4:7; John 14:27). In particular, we are encouraged to know that He can sympathize with each of our weaknesses since He shared them (Heb 4:14-15), including sorrow (John 11:35). More than encouragement, we find grace as we boldly seek God through Christ (Heb 4:16). Our Lord doesn’t end our sorrows, but He gives us joy in the midst of sadness (John 16:33).
Hope to the Weary (verse 2a)
At times, our greatest burden isn’t a tragedy; it’s just life and its many challenges. Christ invites those who are weary and heavy laden to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28).
Hope to the Oppressed (Verse 2b)
Verse 2b gives hope to the oppressed. Satan’s hateful temptation and accusation of believers is a trial indeed (1 Pet 5:8; Rev 12:10). Yet, Scripture teaches that the Savior who indwells us is greater than the Devil (1 John 4:4). Satan is on a short leash; Christ’s authority over him is unquestioned (Luke 10:18), and His victory over him at Calvary is absolute (Heb 2;14). Because we are united to Christ, Satan must flee when we resist Him (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9).
Hope to the Tempted (Verse 3a)
Because of Christ, we are no longer enslaved to sin (Rom 6). He faithfully provides us with a way of escape when tempted (1 Cor 10:13). Obedience is possible when we seek deliverance through Christ (Mat 6:13). He offers freedom, not only forgiveness.
Hope to the Ashamed (verse 3b)
Though God enables and commands our obedience (1 John 2:1), He has graciously provided for our failures, as well (1 John 2:2). Our defense when accused of sin—even when justly so—is Jesus Christ, not our own sorrow, confession, or determination to do better. Jesus has suffered for sin as our propitiation, and He represents us before the Heavenly Father as our Advocate.
Whatever your need, run to Christ and find infinite help.”
(These Doctrinal Notes were written by Chris Anderson and published on the Church Works Media Website. More information, including the text, sheet music, and mp3 to “I Run to Christ” can be found here at the CWM website.)
