The Hypocrite’s Hope
When I wrote yesterday’s post on “The Hypocrite’s Joy”, I didn’t plan for there to be a “part 2”. However, this morning’s Bible reading included the following verse which immediately reminded me of what I wrote yesterday:
“For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul?” Job 27:8
The definition of hope is not “wishful thinking” as we would use today, but rather confidence in something or someone. A hypocrite places their hope…their confidence…in themselves. Whether it be their wealth, their fame, their outward appearance, their personality, their good deeds, their knowledge, their religious service, etc., their hope is in who they are or what they do. And so again, a very sad reality in the life of a hypocrite – the reality of a temporary hope for the Bible says:
“…the hypocrite’s hope shall perish:” Job 8:13
Concerning our eternal destiny, at the end of our lives it will not matter how much wealth we have accumulated, how many people know us, how many good deeds we have done, how much knowledge we have acquired, etc. What will matter is in whom or what our hope is placed. I am reminded of what the Bible says in Matthew 16:26 –
“For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”
My friend, where have you placed your hope? Can you look back to a specific time in your life when, first of all, you realized you were a sinner? You may not remember the exact date, but can you point back to a certain place where you humbled yourself before God, repented of your sins, and trusted in Christ to save you? This morning, can you truly say you have placed your hope in Christ and Christ alone? If not, won’t you do so today?
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
(Edward Mote)