Reflections based on Psalm 37:1–11 and 1 Timothy 6:17.

‘Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God…’ (1 Timothy 6:17)

If we are honest with ourselves, it is so easy to take our eyes off of God and focus on our circumstances, surroundings, peers etc. We can also spend ourselves going after a promotion / new job, a better car or holiday – even starting a family. None of those things are wrong in themselves, but if we put all our energies into them we also inevitably start putting our hope in them too. And that’s when it is easy to get our hopes dashed.

If we are overlooked in our career and see those that we believe are much less deserving take what we feel was our rightful place, then we can become bitter. Like Israel, we can easily forget what God has done for us, and compare ourselves to our ‘enemies’, feeling they are better off than us. But really it all boils down to who are we going to trust. Where does our hope lie? In our career, home, family, leisure activities?

The writer of Psalm 119 shows us where we should be putting our hope: ‘I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word.’ (v147) How often do we turn to the Bible for inspiration and guidance when our hopes are disappointed? Is it our natural response – or the last port of call when desperation comes knocking? 

I love the reminder in Psalm 37 that, if we commit to trusting in God, we do not need to fear for our future, even when evil seems to flourish. We can take hold of the promise that we will inherit the land. We need to learn to keep our hope focused God and what He says rather than material things or earthly relationships.

For prayer and reflection: Think about anything you know you have put your hope in over and above God. Now pray and repent of doing that, asking God to help you to trust only in Him.