Expectation

When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a savior and defender, and He will rescue them. — Isaiah 19:20

Expectation. What’s more exciting than to eagerly await a person or an event? Perhaps it’s Christmas, a new baby, loved ones we haven’t seen for far too long, graduation, a fishing trip.

Any of these can stir up excited feelings of anticipation. So consider the almost frenzied expectation of the Hebrew people under by Roman rule. God had promised them a Messiah, a Savior, a Rescuer to save them from this relentless oppression. Little did they know that God would send them far more than they asked for.

Do you feel this kind of hopeful expectation when you ask the Lord to work in your life or in the lives of your friends or loved ones? Do you pray expecting Him to answer?

Jesus said,

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. — Matthew 21:22

Do you really believe what Jesus said? Believe expectantly! Your loving God just might grant you far more than you asked for.

Dear Lord, please teach me to pray with hope, expecting You to answer — and in ways I never even imagined! Amen.

Excerpted with permission from 365 Devotions to Love God and Love Others Well, copyright Zondervan.

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Your Turn

Advent is all about waiting for Jesus. Expecting Jesus. With hope. We don’t have to pray with fear or dread or hopelessness wondering if God hears us. He hears us! And, He is already at work doing something way beyond our scope of imagination. We can pray knowing He loves us. Come share your thoughts with us on our blog. We would love to hear from you about hopeful expectancy! ~ Devotionals Daily