“The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.”
— Proverbs 10:28 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
Now, if that doesn’t sound like the ultimate summary of life’s ups and downs, I don’t know what does. Think about it—how often do we pour our energy into things that seem to have all the promise in the world, only for them to come up as flat as a soda left out overnight? The righteous, however, have a joy that’s promised, unshakeable, and not easily popped like a balloon at a kids’ party. Why? Because their hopes are anchored in something eternal, something that lasts longer than the latest trend or next best gadget. That kind of joy goes beyond mere “positive vibes.” It’s a confident expectation that God’s goodness is reliable, unlike… well, just about everything else.
And the wicked? Well, their hopes might look shiny, but it’s like dressing up a sandcastle right before the tide rolls in. They stack up dreams on foundations that can’t hold—money, fame, whatever’s “hot” right now. And sure, it might look impressive for a minute, but when that wave hits, what’s left? Nada. So, Proverbs is giving us this nudge: stick to building on the rock, because that’s where true, lasting joy is. God isn’t offering a quick fix; He’s giving us a joy that sticks with us through thick and thin, one that outlasts even the wildest storms life throws our way.
Personal Prayer
Lord, thank You for the promise of joy that only You can give. Sometimes, I get caught up in things that only bring me temporary happiness, chasing after dreams that, in the end, don’t satisfy. Help me to turn my heart toward You, the true source of joy that doesn’t fade or disappoint. Teach me to put my hope in things that last, to trust in Your goodness, and to live in a way that honors You.
Guide my steps today, Lord. Let my desires be shaped by Your wisdom, and my hopes be set on Your eternal promises. When I’m tempted to build on shaky foundations, remind me to anchor myself in You, knowing that only through You can I find the joy that fills and sustains. Thank You for being my rock, my joy, and my greatest hope. Amen.