Determination Of Hope

Determination is what King David exemplified both in his writings (the Psalms) and in his daily life. He relied on this determination, of his faith in God, to take him through some tough times. He overcame the obstacles and was further determined—in his resolve of action and in his faith.

In his declaration in Psalms 16:8-9 (KJV) he not only cements his determination, but also his hope. His hope of determination. “I have set the Lord always before me: because He is at my right hand,
I shall not be moved. Therefore, my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.”

There are several things to note in these scriptures. The basis for David’s determined hope was his relationship to the Lord. Even though Jesus hadn’t come during David’s lifetime, David was expectant of God’s goodness and the promised Messiah. David determined to put the Lord first. In doing so, he was confident in his faith, and in what the Lord would fulfill in his life. His determination of hope further settled in his heart, making it glad—happy, beyond what outward circumstances could dictate. No matter what, David was determined. He walked in hope, and in doing so, he was happy, glad, and blessed.

But look, there’s more. His determination of hope in his Lord caused his flesh to rest. Yes, he experienced some turmoil and tough situations. Yet, through it all, his resolve was to rest in hope. His rest was a life of trusting God. It was a rest of putting the Lord first, trusting Him. It was a rest of his flesh when I’m sure at times his body and mind wanted to tell him how he should respond. Yet, his resolve, his determination of hope allowed him to continue trusting God no matter what he encountered.

Let’s allow our flesh, our emotions to rest in hope, trust what God has promised. Let’s have the determination of hope that David did. We’ll be happier and affect the lives of other around us when we do.