What are you putting your hope in? Maybe this is something you are wrestling with in these chaotic times. Some people may be placing their hope in their government, their resources, or something other than the Lord. How many people departed into eternity today who had failed to place their faith in Jesus as their Savior?
In the end, the only thing we can put our hope in that will sustain us in this life, and the next, is Jesus. The longer you live, the more you realize everyone goes through difficult times. As we journey through life, we can experience a health concern, loss of loved ones, a relationship difficulty, or transitions in life. It is not if life will test you, but when. When we place our hope in the Lord, He is our secure hope. Our Savior, Jesus, is always faithful and does not change with circumstances.
Placing Your Hope in Jesus
My ninety-nine-year-old aunt recently passed away after ongoing health challenges for several years. For some people, this could have led them to be unpleasant to be around, but not her. What was her secret? She had a close relationship with Jesus that sustained her, gave her hope, and allowed her to see beyond this world.
There is something about putting our hope in Jesus that changes us throughout our lives, especially during difficult times. Psalm 42:11Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God! [1]
Hopelessness is a real enemy, and it often comes when we are ill, depressed, or feel defeated. When we focus on Jesus, there is always hope in this world and the next. Hope in Jesus can be found in dark times to bring a smile to our faces.
Haman’s Hopes Were in His Resources
Haman, the second in command under King Xerxes, was wealthy and powerful. Many probably envied his life, but his wealth and power would be short-lived. As Haman would enter the King’s palace, Mordecai, a Jew and low-level official, would not bow to him. In his fury, Haman plotted to kill not just Mordecai but all people who were Jewish. The Lord intervened through Queen Esther, who was also Jewish, as she conveyed to the King what the evil Haman was attempting.
As a result, Haman, instead of the Jews, would be put to death, and all of Haman’s wealth would go to someone else. Esther 8:1On that same day, King Xerxes gave the property of Haman, the enemy of the Jews, to Queen Esther. Then Mordecai was brought before the king, for Esther had told the king how they were related. 2 The king took off his signet ring—which he had taken back from Haman—and gave it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed Mordecai to be in charge of Haman’s property. [2]
The Lord did not create Haman to walk down a path apart from Him or anyone else. It is God’s desire and the work of the Holy Spirit to lead people to faith, so they have the hope of salvation. I pray this is where you have placed your hope!
What are you putting your hope in? To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/reversal-of-fortunes
[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Ps 42:11). Tyndale House Publishers.
[2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Es 8:1–2). Tyndale House Publishers.