Hope in an Ever-Changing World

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)

Hope is one of the most powerful forces in the human heart. It gives us the strength to endure challenges, the courage to face uncertainty, and the faith to believe in a better tomorrow. Yet, hope is often misplaced—anchored in things or people that cannot fully satisfy or sustain it. As we look toward the future of our nation with the inauguration of a new president, some are hopeful, believing this leader will bring positive change, while others are fearful, doubting their ability to steer the nation well.

The Bible teaches us, however, that our ultimate hope must be in the Lord, not in human leaders. Leaders come and go, policies change, and nations rise and fall, but God remains constant. This devotional will explore biblical hope, using the stories of Israel’s leaders as a backdrop, and show how we can anchor our hope in Christ, regardless of who sits in earthly positions of power.

The Rollercoaster of Hope: Israel’s Kings

In the Old Testament, the people of Israel demanded a king. Despite God’s warnings through the prophet Samuel, they insisted on having a human ruler to lead them, like the nations around them.

“But the people refused to listen to Samuel. ‘No!’ they said. ‘We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles.’” (1 Samuel 8:19-20)

God allowed them to have a king, but the results were often disastrous. The nation of Israel experienced a rollercoaster of hope and despair as they placed their trust in human leaders:

Saul: The first king of Israel started well but ended in disobedience, jealousy, and despair. His failure to fully obey God led to his downfall and the loss of God’s favor (1 Samuel 15:22-23).
David: A man after God’s own heart, David was a great king who united Israel and sought God fervently. Yet even he fell into sin, committing adultery and murder, which brought great consequences to his family and kingdom (2 Samuel 11).
Solomon: Known for his wisdom, Solomon led Israel to its peak of prosperity but later turned away from God by worshiping idols, leading the nation into spiritual decline (1 Kings 11:4-6).

The cycle continued with kings who were either faithful to God or led the people astray. The people’s hope fluctuated depending on the character and actions of their leaders. But no earthly king could provide the lasting hope and security they truly needed.

Our Modern Rollercoaster

Like ancient Israel, we often pin our hopes on human leaders. As a nation, we place great emphasis on presidents and their ability to guide us toward prosperity, unity, and progress. Some presidents have left legacies of positive change, while others have caused division or regret.

Yet, as history shows, no human leader can meet all the expectations placed upon them. Leaders are fallible and limited, just as we are. While they can influence the direction of a country, they are not saviors.

Psalm 146:3-4 reminds us of this truth:
“Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.”

Our hope cannot rest in political leaders, parties, or policies. True hope is found in the unchanging character of God.

Hope Anchored in Christ

Biblical hope is not wishful thinking or blind optimism. It is a confident expectation rooted in God’s promises. As Hebrews 6:19 says:
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”

This hope is eternal, unshaken by the uncertainties of life or the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms. When we place our hope in Christ, we are trusting in:

God’s Sovereignty
God is in control of all things, including nations and leaders. Daniel 2:21 declares:
“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” While presidents and governments have authority, it is God who ultimately directs history according to His purpose.
God’s Promises
The Bible is filled with promises that give us hope, no matter our circumstances. Romans 8:28 assures us:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Even when leadership fails or the future feels uncertain, we can trust that God is working for our good.
God’s Eternal Kingdom
Earthly governments are temporary, but God’s kingdom is everlasting. Jesus said:
“My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” (John 18:36) As citizens of heaven, our ultimate hope lies not in this world but in the eternal reign of Christ.

How to Cultivate Hope in Uncertain Times

Pray for Leaders
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2) Regardless of who leads, we are called to pray for them, asking God to guide their decisions and give them wisdom.
Keep Your Eyes on Jesus
Like Peter walking on water, we can only stay afloat when we fix our eyes on Christ (Matthew 14:29-30). When the waves of political turmoil rise, let’s look to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Live Out Your Faith
True hope transforms how we live. Jesus calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16). When we live as agents of His love, justice, and peace, we bring hope to those around us.
Invite God Into Every Sphere
Imagine the difference it would make if we invited God into our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

A Hope That Transcends

As we face the challenges and opportunities of a new political era, let us remember that our hope is not in presidents, policies, or parties, but in the unchanging character of God. Just as Israel’s kings could not provide lasting peace or righteousness, neither can modern leaders.

Instead, let’s place our trust in Jesus, the King of kings, who reigns forever. With our hope anchored in Him, we can face any uncertainty with confidence, knowing that His plans for us are good.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13, NIV)

According to JoAnne