With an open mind, embracing the complexity of the world and seeking out new knowledge and perspectives, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of the global landscape and find ways to navigate and survive its challenges. Taking risks means embracing possibilities, says Vick Hope but, as Joy Mangano is quoted to warn, ‘you must be realistic’.

The current uncertainty in the world markets, and in turn the global community, is of course unsettling.  But it also offers the open and positive- minded an opportunity to re-evaluate perspective and seek out new anchors for stability. By embracing this challenge and seeking out new insights, individuals can develop a more nuanced understanding of the world and find ways to thrive in an ever-changing environment. For, in any case, as the saying goes change (or uncertainty) is the only constant in life.  

In times of uncertainty and turmoil, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and lost. However, for those who anchor their hope in Jesus Christ, there is a sense of stability and security that transcends the fleeting nature of worldly circumstances. Baptist Church pastor Edmund Mote’s 1834 lyrics to the hymn “My hope is built on nothing less” meaningfully and beautifully captures the essence of this hope, emphasising the unwavering and dependable trust that can be placed in Christ Jesus.

The Scripture is full of metaphor of rock as strong, sure, and reliable (see Psalms 31:2 and 62:2; Isaiah 2:10; and Matthew 7:24).  In this age and these times, Jesus the Christ is ‘the Rock’ on which to anchor our faith, hope and trust.

The hymn’s refrain, “On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand: all other ground is sinking sand,” establishes an unambiguous contradistinction between the reliability of the one and the unreliability of the other, and declares unequivocally, a trust in the former. The refrain also underscores the idea that true stability and security can only be found in Christ. In stark contrast with the shifting sands of worldly foundations, Christ’s foundation is unshakeable and eternal. This truth provides a sense of peace and confidence, even in the midst of turmoil.

“My hope is built on nothing less” also speaks of resting in Christ’s ‘unchanging grace’, even ‘when darkness veils His lovely face’. This image suggests that there may be times when God’s presence seems distant or obscured, but His grace remains a constant source of comfort and strength. The anchor of faith holds fast within the veil, providing a sense of stability and security.

The hymn further emphasises the power of Christ’s oath, covenant, and blood to support believers in times of need. When all around seems to be giving way, Christ is the hope and stay that holds fast. This truth provides a sense of reassurance and confidence, knowing that God’s promises are trustworthy and His power is sufficient.

The final verse looks forward to the day when Christ shall come with trumpet sound, and believers will stand before the throne of God. The desire to be found worthy of and in Christ, dressed in His righteousness alone and faultless before the throne, is a powerful expression of the hope that drives believers. This hope is not based on human merit or achievement but solely on the finished work of Christ.

The hymn “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less” is a powerful expression of the hope that can be found in and must be placed in Jesus Christ. By putting our trust in Him, we can experience a sense of stability, security, and peace that transcends the uncertainties of this world. As we navigate the challenges of life, I pray that mankind finds comfort and strength in the unshakeable foundation of Christ, knowing that He is our solid Rock and our hope.

Let me conclude to say that as we navigate the complexities and challenges of our world, it’s essential to acknowledge the reality of the trouble we face. The way and the rate man is going about its place and role on earth, it is increasingly clear that he is both losing control of self toward perdition. Besides, he is failing in the great purpose for which he was created and positioned above than other earthly creatures. But we may yet save ourselves from self-destruction, from turning this Mother Earth into a ‘great late planet’.  It is fully up to us.
 
By embracing a mindset that anchors hope above and beyond the human rationality or sense of coherence, we can find stability and security in these times of uncertainty. But this requires, nay demands, a deep-seated trust in something greater than us, be that a higher power, a supreme intelligence, a sense of purpose, or a commitment to values that transcend the fleeting nature of worldly circumstances.

Thus, we can cultivate the sense of hope and resilience to sustain us through even the most turbulent of times. Jesus Christ remains the firm, sure and eternally trustworthy anchor against turbulence and vicissitudes. He provides certainty in times of uncertainty.

Concluded.

Megbolugbe, is Director of GIVA Ministries International. He wrote from the United States of America.