HOPE

Psalm 9

“For the oppressed will not always be forgotten; the hope of the afflicted will not perish forever.” (Psalm 9:18, HCSB)

Summer sunshine, warm weather, clear skies may cover darkness, coldness, and clouded lives. Everything looks wonderful on the exterior, but many experience oppression and affliction. Exploitation occurs whether the sun shines or not. Pain is inflicted even under sunny skies. The season of darkness can appear to be endless even as others enjoy the bright, warm, and clear days of summer.

Often the only thread enabling some to survive is the hope affirmed by this psalmist. God’s people have always existed among nations that are hostile to the plan and purposes of God. Hope exists not because God’s people have within them any strength. Hope exists because God is, because God has revealed Himself, because He has proven Himself again and again.

Even in the brilliance of summer days, hope is a commodity necessary for life. God remembers, God promises, and God does act.