The Banzai Chronicles

When a Christian grasps a promise, if he does not take it to God, he dishonours him; but when he hastens to the throne of grace, and cries, “Lord, I have nothing to recommend me but this, ‘Thou hast said it;’” then his desire shall be granted. Our heavenly Banker delights to cash his own notes. Never let the promise rust. Draw the word of promise out of its scabbard, and use it with holy violence.

—Charles Haddon Spurgeon, Morning and Evening (15 January, Morning)

Hope is the ultimate submission. When I hope in God's promises, I place His Word, His power, and His goodness before anything else that might seem true to my sensibilities. When I refuse to risk on Him in this way, I stubbornly deny that He is who He says He is. This is a foolish thing, because He doesn't need my belief to be God, He doesn't need my obedience to be sovereign, and He doesn't need my approval to be good.

I only cut myself off from His limitless resources when I do not actively hope in His promises—and even then, by His grace He breaks through, loves me, and works on my behalf! But how much better if I align my heart with His overriding reality, if I depend upon the faithful love of my Abba, if I dare to hope in Him?