HANGING ON TO WHAT OTHERS RIDICULE
Christine Wyrtzen
You make us an object of contention to our neighbors, And our enemies laugh among themselves. Psalm 80:6
Those who live without Jesus hope for things they cannot see and have no assurance of ever getting. “I hope I get picked for the team.” “I hope things work out okay.” “I hope I will be loved in my new marriage.” They watch us live by faith and taunt us as we assure them that our Father answers prayer and keeps His promises. We're human though ~ and we ache as we seek to hang onto our hope. It's easy to lose it in the company of those who try to talk us out of it.
Children of God hope for things they cannot see but know that what they hope for already exists. They have a Father who has promised it. They hope for heaven; knowing it will be there when they take their first gasp of celestial air. They hope for deliverance; knowing that there will be one whether on earth or in heaven. They hope for healing; knowing that the Healer is vested in them and will provide it. They hope for redemption; knowing that no pain is ever wasted. Why? God said so.
Waiting patiently is not passive but pro-active. In order to keep hope alive (and keep the lies of hopelessness at bay), I must be reviewing the promises of my Father. I re-read the stories of my spiritual ancestors and their similar dark times in order to be reminded how God was faithful when onlookers ridiculed them. I find scriptural promises that relate to my struggle and live in the hope of them, knowing that promises are a sure thing because of “who” it is that made them. I hang those promises on my mirror, on my walls, and post them in a prominent place in my car. This is the fight for faith.
Loss, grief, betrayal…these all visit the lives of Christians and non-Christians alike. Though weeping visits us all, the nature of our tears differs greatly. The laments of God’s children are temporary and though they cry, they cling to the robe of their Prophet King and recite the promises of His good will. Resolution of the heavenly kind is just around the corner.
If I harbor disappointment today in any area of my life, it is only because my deliverance has not yet come. I know it will and my hope is sure in You. Give me grace while I wait. Give me strength to fight for my faith by speaking Your Word to the lies of my own soul. Amen
Originally published Wednesday, 08 August 2018.
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