ODJ: hooks to hang your hopes on

Eat, Our Daily Journey | October 9, 2010 12:02 am

ODJ_091010

October 9, 2010 


His faithful promises are your armor and protection (v.4). 

READ: Psalm 91 

Pastor Tim Keller says that, in life, “Fifty percent of
 the reason we get so discouraged and despondent 
 is we’re shocked when something bad happens. We say, ‘This isn’t how it’s supposed to be.’ ” 


In other words, we tend to believe that since we’ve placed our faith in Jesus, and because we’ve tried to be “good” Christians, a comfortable and problem-free existence should be ours. 


New York Giants and New York Yankees Chaplain George McGovern explained the pitfall of such thinking to the professional athletes he works with. He said, “When you hang your hopes on non-guaranteed promises rather than on God’s guaranteed promises, you are destined to experience deep disappointment.” Keller adds that with this type of mindset, “You’re going to be continually shocked and even overthrown.”


Though God doesn’t promise us rosy circumstances, worldly success, or the fulfillment of all our “wants,” He does present an abundance of promises that, if we cling to them, will help us stand during tough times. His guarantees include: “Forgiveness of sins for all who repent” (Luke 24:47); triumph over sin and death for all who receive God’s wonderful gifts of grace and righteousness “through this one Man, Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:17); an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will never leave those who love God and accept His commandments (John 14:15-21); “peace of mind and heart” that the world can’t provide (v.27); rest for the “weary” who bring their “heavy burdens” to Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30); eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ (Titus 1:1-2).


In a world where people and circumstances disappoint, we can experience true joy by discarding our sense of worldly entitlement and placing our hope in God’s promises. —Roxanne Robbins


NEXT
Find three additional promises in God’s Word to hang your hopes on. Why is it vital that we trust in God’s promises? 
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