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Bible Passage: Romans 5:2-5
“When you give up your dream you die.” This quote is from the Nick Hurley character in the movie Flashdance. A lot of people live by movie quotes. If one must do that, I think this quote is as good as they come. I believe having a dream and the idea of hope are quite similar. If my assumption is correct, then Paul wrote about this concept in his letter to the Romans, specifically in chapter 5.
“And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” – Romans 5:2b-5
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A lot of people give up their dreams because of suffering endured while trying to attain them. If one keeps on pursing dreams despite the many problems that come along with them, one will gain endurance or character and then there will be hope. Paul says, this hope “does not disappoint us.” It is almost like a circle. If you have hope, some suffering will come, but then the end result is more hope. Paul is speaking of our entry into Heaven. The letter to the Romans is full of hope for a future with God although we must suffer at times. Although Paul was speaking of Heaven, this is easily translated to everyday life. If our dream is to do something that is within the character of God, something that does not go against any of his teaching, keep on believing and striving despite minor or even major setbacks. Never give up!
I wouldn’t suggest anyone struggling with lust, watch the film Flashdance, but not giving up on your dreams, that, I whole heartedly endorse.
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