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Do you ever feel hopeless?  I know I do from time to time.  When I feel hopeless, I turn to the Bible.  The Bible gives me hope.

  The following are my notes taken during my pastor's sermon.

The scripture passage from "Hope in the Word" is 1 Thessalonians 2:13.

For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. - 1 Thessalonians 2:13

The Thessalonians welcomed the Word of God.

Hope in the Word - The Bible Gives Us Hope

1.  God's Word is God's Word.

When we read the scriptures out loud, we are hearing words from God.  We are hearing God speak.

And according to Paul’s custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures. - Acts 17:2

When we speak and explain the Word, it changes people's lives.

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness. - 2 Timothy 3:16

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For no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. - 2 Peter 1:21

Did you know that the first public school was opened for the purpose of teaching the Bible?

The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. - Isaiah 40:8

2.  God's Word is to be received and welcomed.

"God’s Word doesn’t change, the message doesn’t shift. It can’t be compromised in any way. It’s where we stand firm."- James McDonald

Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.  But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. - James 1:21-22

We need to be humbled when we come to the Word.  Not only should we receive it but we should liv it out.

3.  God's Word works.

When we believe God's Word, it works effectively in our hearts.

For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. - Philippians 2:13

When a born again believer reads the Word of God and receives and believes, He will grant you the desire and ability to do what God wants you to do.

God's Word makes us wise.

The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. - Psalm 19:8

God's Word causes our hearts to rejoice.  Our circumstances may not change, but our hearts will.

Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You. - Psalm 119:11

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. - Hebrews 4:12