Nurturing Hope: A Guiding Light for Christian Business Leaders
ADVENT: Nurturing HOPE
Can you believe Advent is upon us again? It's a time that holds profound significance for us as believers. This week, as we light the first candle, let's delve deeper into the theme of HOPE.
I understand that the topic of hope is meant to reflect on the hope that Jesus provided when he came to earth. However, a slightly different topic is on my heart as we start the season of ADVENT; The role of hope in our lives as Christian business leaders.
Anchoring Our Lives in the Unshakeable Hope of God
In Hebrews 6:19 (NIV), we're reminded that hope is not wishful thinking but an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. This anchor isn't tossed around by the storms of uncertainty; it holds steady.
"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (NIV)
It's imperative that we, as Christian leaders, intentionally anchor everything we do in the unshakeable hope found in God's promises.
Q: Consider a recent challenge you have had. How might approaching it with the Godly assurance of a firm and secure hope change your perspective and strategy to overcome it?
The Power of Encouragement
Turning to 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV), we find the call to encourage one another and build each other up. Our words and actions, especially as leaders, have a profound impact. We desire to infuse hope into those around us through intentional encouragement, recognizing that we're actively participating in building each other up.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." (NIV)
Q: Think about someone in your circle that may be facing adversity. How can your words be a source of genuine encouragement, echoing the hope we're called to provide?
Perseverance Grounded in Joyful Hope
Romans 12:12 (NIV) urges us to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. This paints a picture of hope not just as an abstract concept but as a source of resilience. As Christians, and especially as business leaders, we are called to embody patience and faithfulness in the face of challenges, demonstrating a Godly hope is a necessary part of resilience.
Q: Consider a project or goal that's testing your patience. How can you maintain joy, patience, and faithfulness, allowing hope to be the bedrock of your perseverance?
In wrapping up, let's commit to being Godly leaders who don't just carry hope but actively nurture and radiate it. Our hope is not in fleeting circumstances but in the unchanging promises of God. May our leadership be a light and testament to this hope, inspiring those around us, in our businesses and beyond, to see and celebrate the God who sent His Son to us as a way of instilling HOPE for the future.
My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, as I enter this Advent season, I come before you with gratitude for the hope you provide. Grant me the wisdom to anchor my endeavors in your unshakeable promises, the compassion to encourage others genuinely, and the resilience to persevere joyfully. May my life be a reflection of the hope I find in you, influencing those around me to seek your guidance in every aspect of their lives. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca
"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit"
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this is a printable/ fillable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions, and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.
