Introduction

When we use the word hope in everyday conversation, it often means little more than wishful thinking. If I say, “I hope the Denver Broncos beat the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday” (an example I’ll use for my son-in-law’s benefit), I may want that outcome, but in reality, not much of my physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being is tied to the result of that game.

That kind of “hope” is really just a preference or desire. It might be fun, but it doesn’t change my life.

But biblical hope is something far deeper. It isn’t wishful thinking—it’s supreme confidence.

Hope vs. Wishful Thinking

The Bible presents hope not as vague optimism but as assurance rooted in God’s character.

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”

Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)

This verse doesn’t describe a hope that drifts or wavers with circumstances. It’s an anchor—steady, immovable, holding us secure in turbulent waters.

Even modern psychology reflects this truth. Positive psychology describes hope as the belief that the future can be better, combined with both the motivation and the pathways to reach it. Studies show that people with higher levels of hope experience lower stress, better coping, and greater resilience. But what psychology cannot provide is the ultimate guarantee. Human hope, on its own, still faces uncertainty.

That’s where biblical hope goes further. It’s not dependent on circumstances, abilities, or probabilities—it’s tied directly to God’s promises.

Anchoring Our Hope in God

For the things that really matter in life and eternity, wishful thinking isn’t enough. If we want a hope that holds firm through every storm, we need to bind our hope to God Himself.

Scripture is filled with calls to place our hope in Him:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
—Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.”
—Psalm 39:7 (ESV)

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
—Romans 15:13 (NIV)

True hope isn’t fragile. It isn’t based on temporary circumstances or personal effort. It is God’s gift to those who trust Him, rooted in His unchanging faithfulness.

Why Do We Struggle to Place Our Hope in God?

If that’s true, then why don’t we always place our hope securely in Him? Speaking from my own walk with God, part of the struggle comes from prayers that weren’t answered the way I wanted:

• Loved ones still passed away.
• Some of my children and friends have not yet anchored their lives to Christ.
• Jobs and opportunities have not always unfolded as I would have liked.

These disappointments can make it hard to “go all in” with God. It feels risky to release our hopes to Him when we don’t know how—or if—they’ll come to pass.

But then I remember: even the most meaningful parts of this life are temporary. My career, my accomplishments, even the struggles I face—they’re like ripples in a pond, fading quickly in light of eternity.

There is one thing, though, that is not temporary: where I place my hope.

The Eternal Perspective

A thousand years from now, the only thing that will matter is this: that I placed my hope in Christ.

Jesus promised:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16 (NIV)

By believing in Him, by anchoring my hope in Him, I have the assurance of eternal life with Him—and with all those I love who have also accepted His gift of salvation.

That doesn’t mean I stop praying for my children and friends to come to Christ. Their salvation is an eternal matter, so I will keep hoping and praying that God will move in their lives at just the right time.

But it does mean I can rest. Because whatever else may rise and fall, the hope I have in Christ is secure.

Conclusion

So much of what we call hope is really just wishful thinking. But the hope the Bible speaks of—the hope we find in Christ—is different. It’s not shaky or uncertain. It’s a confident expectation, an anchor for the soul, rooted in the faithfulness of God.

And because of that, I can go “all in” with God—no safety nets, no backup plans. I can place my hope completely in Him.

Because in the end, the joy and peace of eternity in His presence are far greater than any temporary concern.