Hope in a Glorious Future

A GLORIOUS FUTURE:

"The things we hope for are often future events. If only we could look beyond the horizon of mortality into what awaits us beyond this life. Is it possible to imagine a more glorious future than the one prepared for us by our Heavenly Father? Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we need not fear, for we will live forever, never to taste of death again. Because of His infinite Atonement, we can be cleansed of sin and stand pure and holy before the judgment bar. The Savior is the Author of our Salvation."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Infinite Power of Hope," Ensign, Nov. 2008, 22

FIRM HOPE:

"Hope is not knowledge, but rather the abiding trust that the Lord will fulfill His promise to us. It is confidence that if we live according to God's laws and the words of His prophets now, we will receive desired blessings in the future. It is believing and expecting that our prayers will be answered. It is manifest in confidence, optimism, enthusiasm, and patient perseverance."In the language of the gospel, this hope is sure, unwavering, and active. The prophets of old speak of a 'firm hope' (Alma 34:41) and a 'lively hope' (1 Peter 1:3). It is a hope glorifying God through good works. With hope comes joy and happiness. With hope, we can 'have patience, and bear . . . [our] afflictions' (Alma 34:41)."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Infinite Power of Hope," Ensign, Nov. 2008, 22

The future is a terrible, frightening void. Most of the time, I dread it—especially lately. I don’t know much about it, and what I do know makes it that much worse. The “what ifs” and “if onlys” eat away at the hope that should permeate the darkness… hope. There’s a good word for the day. Instead of focusing on the unknown and worrying about what might or might not happen, we should focus our energy on hope. The future can be a bright, beautiful place—it just depends on how we choose to at it. I’m afraid, I don’t know what’s going to happen, or when, or how. I’m taking a huge jump here into the darkness, but I’m sure hoping that I can fly… If hope really is “a thing with feathers, that perches in the soul,” then here’s to a good flight (Emily Dickinson).

Photo: http://www.charlesginn.com.au/