The hymn “There Stands a Rock” carries a powerful message based upon the image of Christ presented in the scriptures, especially from the book of the Psalms. The Lord is our mighty rock, a refuge, and a strong fortress (Psa 31:2-3; 71:3; 91:1-2). He is our place of rest and safety, our trustworthy deliverer (Psa 36:7; 37:7; 61:2-3). Even if enemies surround us or calamity threatens, with the Savior, we will be blessed (Psa 17:6-9; 18:1-3; 23:4-6). He will stand forever and those who trust in Him will not be shaken by any earthly circumstances (Psa 62:2; 102:25-27; 112:6-7). Sadly, many seem to have lost sight of this truth. Rather than keeping proper spiritual focus, some build their hopes on the ever-drifting sands.
Some build their hopes on the right person or party having political power. Some root for the R’s while others want D’s in office. Pause and consider. Why should we trust in powers that are temporary and fallible? Yes, be informed and vote for Biblical values, but know also that we serve a greater purpose. No party platform can replace the gospel message and no leader can replace the Savior. It is true that some candidates and their policies are more compatible with Christianity than others. However, one might make the argument that God’s people are more faithful under a ruler who is not. Consider how often we see great devotion come as a result of great persecution (Exo 1:17; Dan 6:10; Acts 8:1-4).
Some build their hopes on their privileges and rights as a citizen. In U.S. politics, the first and second amendments to the constitution usually get a lot of attention. Many Christians in America are eager to promote and defend their freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and right to bear arms. Again, pause and consider. None of these are required for you to be in a right relationship with God. Men and women were faithful and active members of the church long before such concepts existed. In fact, Christians in other parts of the world today are being true to God, even while their governments persecute and imprison them. We can and should be thankful to have these blessings in America. Nevertheless, we should realize that these rights concern our physical protection and safety from oppression and tyranny. They do not concern our spiritual protection or deliverance from sin and its eternal punishment.
Some build their hopes on prosperous economic circumstances increasing their bank or retirement accounts. This corresponds to the words in the refrain of our song, “some on their fame or their treasure or their land.” The Bible has much to say on this point. Your soul is more valuable than all the treasures of the earth (Mark 8:36-37). Material goods laid up for many years will not meet the needs of a man’s soul (Luke 12:15-21). Therefore, we make provision for the spirit by laying up treasures in Heaven (Matt 6:19-21). One who is poor in this life can still be very faithful to God (Mark 12:41-44; Luke 16:20-22). One who is rich can be faithful as well (Gen 13:1-6), although it will be more difficult in some ways. The wealthy are tempted to become complacent, trusting in their abundance rather than in God (Matt 19:23-24; 1 Tim 6:17).
Life on this earth is full of danger, chaos, and uncertainty. How will we have confidence to move forward and expect good in our future? Will we build our hopes on the Rock of Ages or the ever-drifting sands? Loyal Christians have the victory no matter who is in power, what rights become infringed, or how much we have monetarily. Those who choose to build their hopes on Christ will never be disappointed.
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