Doing vs. Hoping

Talk is cheap. There seems to be an inverse relationship between the amount of words spoken and their importance. Aren’t you tired of political rants that run on and are filled with bluster and self-promotion?

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to hear “It’s done” instead of “I hope to accomplish…”? It seems the news media have timeslots to fill and little to nothing of real importance to fill them. Much political speech consists of trash-talking the opposition and boasting, neither of which promotes peace and harmony. Politicians who offer hope through platitudes are building their house on sand (Matt. 7:26).

For contrast, the Bible says:

“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” (Prov. 27:2) It also tells us: “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification…” (Eph. 4:29). Now, the next time you hear a political speech, you have a standard against which to judge.

How does this fit with today’s title? Hope that is not tied to doing is false hope. We said hope without truth is wishful thinking. Today, I’m adding this: “Hope without action is like trying to drive a car with no gas.” In both cases, your objective continues to elude you.

I believe if you ask people

where they will spend eternity, most will either affirm confidently, “heaven,” or they’ll say something like, “I hope to go to heaven.” Those who can positively answer they’re going to heaven when they die, are those who have done something. No, I’m not talking about good deeds or large donations, but they have come to God on His terms.

Jesus said, “…the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.” (John 6:37). “Come” is a verb which implies doing something. If you haven’t come to Jesus, humble and repentant, you’ll be turned away at the door (Matt.25:10,11). For good news, click here, Steps To Salvation.