Where Do We Put Our Hope?

Lord, where do I put my hope?

My only hope is in you. . . .

Hear my prayer, O Lord!

Listen to my cries for help!

Don’t ignore my tears.

For I am your guest—

a traveler passing through,

as my ancestors were before me.

Leave me alone so I can smile again

before I am gone and exist no more.

Psalm 39:7, 12-13

“What do I have to hope in anymore?” This is a common question for those experiencing depression or going through a tragic situation—as David was when he prayed this psalm. Hope is the fuel of life, giving people the ability to endure daily frustrations. But where there is no hope, life and vitality are slowly drained away. In this prayer, David reminded himself of the shortness of his own life. As the king of Israel, David would have possessed great power and resources, yet he quickly realized he couldn’t place his hope in these things. His only hope was God.

Take a moment to reflect on where you place your hope. Is it in your possessions? Your abilities? Your relationships? Place your hope in God alone.

• Dear Lord, my only hope is in you . . .