“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in You.” Psalm 39:7
Recently I experienced a medical condition that has a high mortality rate. As I lay in the hospital hooked up to more wires than the local power grid, I contemplated my mortality.
Most people think of hope like that, as in, "I hope something will happen." But that’s not what the Bible means by hope. The biblical definition is "confident expectation." Hope is a firm assurance regarding things that are unclear and unknown.
Without hope, life loses its meaning. The righteous who trust in God will be helped, and they won’t be confused, put to shame, or disappointed. They have a confidence in God's protection and help and are free from fear and anxiety.
Though I hoped I would recover, as I have a lot of living yet to do, my ultimate hope is in my eternal salvation. Even faced with my current situation, I knew with that expectant hope, that all would be well. Regardless of when and how I came out of the hospital, someday — maybe even soon — I would see the face of Jesus.
As the great songwriter Edward Mote wrote decades ago: My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus Christ, my righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
Lord, my hope is built on You and nothing less. My hope springs eternal for that day when I see Your face. Amen.
Take Action
Do a “hope check.” Where is your hope? Where is your assurance? Make sure your eyes are on Him and on Him alone.