All day long I hear the word “hope” used in various contexts: “I hope it doesn’t rain.” “I hope I can make it to work on time.” “I hope I get a raise.” Children who become accustomed to hearing this word used often in conversation may adopt it to fit their own needs and desires: “I hope we win the game.” “I hope I get the teacher I want.” “I hope I don’t get sick.”
In whom or what we place our hope can mean the difference between spiritual victory and defeat in life. Because hope is only given by God, placing our hope in anything other than Him will prove to be insufficient. On the other hand, choosing to place our hope solely in the promises of God will allow us to experience victory in each and every situation.
For this reason, train your children to understand that those things promised to us in Scripture can be fully counted on and hoped in. In contrast, those things that are not promised to us in the Bible cannot be trusted in or hoped for.
Are you placing your hope in the possible turn around of a financial crisis, or in our faithful Almighty God to bring you through? Are you hoping in the words your boss used when he told you the company would not be downsizing, or in God’s promised provision?
Psalm 62:5-6 says: Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Because God is eternal, steadfast, and immovable, those who hope in Him will not be shaken. Therefore, children who are taught to hope only in Almighty God can stand secure on the truth of His instructions and trust without wavering in His promises.
As the old hymn goes: My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus’ name. In what ways are you training your children to place their hope in the name of Jesus?