The Lord Is Our Most Sure Hope
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Finding Hope When Things Seem Hopeless
A quick look at current events around the world reveals how many disasters and turmoils exist. In one sense, it's nothing new. But our awareness of it all at once is new because of the internet and social media.
Even with advanced means of communication, much of the plight of oppressed and poor people is under-reported and even unknown to most of the world.
Natural and man-made disasters have occurred throughout history. Conflict over immigration and oppression aren't just American or European issues—they're worldwide and have continued for centuries and centuries.
When atrocities and tragedies take place, some common questions get asked. Where's God? Doesn't He see what's happening? Doesn't He care?
God does see, and He does care far more than anyone. He is sovereign, all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present. He is our Creator and Sustainer. And the Lord longs to bring restoration in our lives and this world as our Redeemer.
What holds God back from doing this in our lives? Although I don’t know the full answer to this question, I know we—ourselves—are the biggest hindrance. God created everyone with free will. We are free to trust in Him or choose to trust in ourselves or others.
He’s given us the freedom to choose, but what we will choose is up to each of us.
Scripture
Hallelujah! Praise the Lord, my soul!
I want to praise the Lord throughout my life.
I want to make music to praise my God as long as I live.
Do not trust influential people, mortals who cannot help you.
When they breathe their last breath, they return to the ground.
On that day their plans come to an end.
Blessed are those who receive help from the God of Jacob.
Their hope rests on the Lord their God, who made heaven, earth, the sea, and everything in them. The Lord remains faithful forever. [vss 1-6]
He brings about justice for those who are oppressed. He gives food to those who are hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free.
The Lord gives sight to blind people. The Lord straightens the backs of those who are bent over. The Lord loves righteous people.
The Lord protects foreigners. The Lord gives relief to orphans and widows. But he keeps wicked people from reaching their goal.
The Lord rules as king forever. Zion, your God rules throughout every generation.
Hallelujah! [vss 7-10]
(Psalm 146:1-10 GW) [Context– Psalm 146]
Reflections and Insights
Psalm 146 begins and ends with the same exclamation — ”Hallelujah!” (Praise the Lord!) A quick overview of this psalm reveals an encouraging progression of praise.
It begins with David’s familiar exhortation to himself — “Praise the Lord, my soul!” A second exhortation follows to caution against putting our trust in people of influence. Instead, we are to place our hope on the Lord, our Creator.
The Lord is faithful, and He brings restoration when we place our trust in Him. We’re given a concluding reminder of God’s sovereignty — “The Lord rules as king forever.”
This psalm reminds us that God cares far more for His creation than anyone who's ever lived on the earth. He has always cared. God has intervened on behalf of those in need and oppressed many times throughout history. Many have testified to it over and over again.
God even came in person to provide a solution—a way of reconciling and restoring all humanity. This is alluded to in verses 7-9, which are echoed in Isaiah and the Gospels (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18-19). We’re reminded that it's God's nature to care for and to help those who are in need and oppressed.
But many people trust in themselves, or people with influence and wealth, or in a government, or a sovereign ruler. These are very limited sources of help and hope. “When they breathe their last breath, they return to the ground ... their plans come to an end.” (vs 4)
But those who trust in God have a more sure hope and enduring source of help. God is not limited, and He is always faithful. And so, the psalmist shouts "Hallelujah!" An exclamation of praise that is understood around the world.
The Lord — “brings justice...gives food...sets prisoners free...gives sight...straightens...loves...protects...gives relief...and rules as king forever.” (verses 7-10)
These actions are what we see in Jesus when He lived and ministered among people on earth. It's what God has always done for those who trust in Him.
Reflection—
Who are you trusting in? Do you have the sure hope found in the Lord? There will always be uncertainty, turmoil, disasters, and oppression, but the Lord is ever faithful and ready to help when you call out to Him and entrust your life to Him.
Prayer Focus—
When you find yourself overwhelmed or overcome by circumstances beyond your control, reach out to the Lord in prayer. Ask the Lord for His help and strength to redirect your thoughts on Him—who He is and what He’s done for you. And exhort yourself to — ”bless the Lord!”
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