Does it ever feel to you like there are some streets always under construction? A couple months of detours, only to find out that the other half of the road will be completed next summer. These projects are ongoing because there is always work to do. In the same way, our lives are always under construction. 

Throughout Romans Paul makes it clear that God has not finished His saving work yet. The mention of hope always points to the future. Romans 15:13 says “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” 

God inspires us to hope. To see the day when the road will have less potholes, when our hearts will be softened, and when we’ll be slower to speak. We can be hopeful ultimately because this doesn’t depend on us. If it did, we’d descend into despair. Instead, we’re promised ongoing work in our lives as we abide in the God of Hope. 

The one to whom hope finds its home, His spirit dwells in you. Embrace the construction, allow the Holy Spirit to give you hope.