Hope (Colossians 1:5)

Paul was thankful for God's work in the Colossians (v. 3). Their faith and love was evident (v. 4) and he knew God had something special stored up for them in heaven. This something special is referred to as their hope. What is this hope? Peter writes that there is "an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for [us]" (1 Pet. 1:4). John writes "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!...and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him for we shall see Him as He is" (1 Jn. 3:1-2). Our great hope is that one day we will be like Jesus, "incorruptible and undefiled". That day will come when we see Him.

This hope helps us persevere through difficult times in life (Rom. 8:25). "For [we] consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Rom. 8:18; cf. Rom. 8:18-30)