By the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. – Romans 15:13

Believers, at times, get sidetracked by controversial issues, though they may intend to please God and do His will. In their desire for peace, justice, and righteousness, the focus on God may be lost in concerns about matters such as the economy, immigration enforcement, protests, and war. Paul says that God is the God of hope. He is the one who fills you with joy and peace so that you abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, as today’s verse highlights. The Lord is the One in whom you trust, not political figures or cultural circumstances.

Earlier verses in this chapter describe how Christians should treat each other, meeting each other’s needs, not living selfishly, and encouraging one another. The power of the Holy Spirit is required to maintain hope when situations around you may appear hopeless. Be your own fruit inspector. Does your character reveal love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control? As you are filled with and led by the Spirit of God, this fruit will be the natural result. Yielding to the Holy Spirit affects how you treat others.

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. As you celebrate, ask God to give you opportunities to show love and kindness to the mothers in your life. There may be a mother whose children are estranged, who has lost a child, or who has recently lost her mother, and needs comfort. Pray for those who have longed to become mothers who have not received the blessing of children. Look to God for hope, encouragement, and endurance as you trust Him and care for others. Intercede on behalf of the citizens and governing officials of the United States to act out of consideration and kindness toward others.