18 August 2026
Paul describes his ministry as being “for the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness.” But underneath that purpose sits something even more foundational, “the hope of eternal life that God, who cannot lie, promised before time began.” Mark Penrith reminded us, “Our hope is in the character of God. He cannot break His word.” Christian hope does not rest on wishful thinking. It rests on the character of the God who made the promise.
That promise reaches further back than our lives. Paul says God promised eternal life “before time began.” Mark emphasised that “This is not a plan B.” God did not invent His saving purpose after sin entered the world. Before the mountains formed and before the stars filled the sky, God had already purposed to save His people. Numbers 23:19 declares, “God is not a man who lies, or a son of man who changes his mind. Does he speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill?” Our circumstances change. Our emotions change. God does not.
That truth matters when anxiety starts taking over. Work can become uncertain. Finances can feel tight. Parenting can leave you exhausted. The future can seem impossible to predict. In those moments, Mark said, “The child trusts the father completely. Not because the gift is in hand, but because the father is trustworthy.” You may not see everything God has promised yet. You can still trust Him because He is trustworthy. Your salvation does not depend on how well you hold onto God. It rests on how faithfully God holds onto you.
So when worry rises today, stop and ask what you are trusting to give you security. Then deliberately turn your attention back to God’s character. He cannot lie. He cannot fail. He will keep His promise. Tell your children about a promise you have kept to them. Then remind them that even the best earthly father can fail, but God never does. As Mark said, “He is a Father who always delivers.” Let that truth steady you before you begin the day’s demands.
How does God’s inability to lie change the way you face uncertainty?
Prayer: Father, thank You that Your promises cannot fail. When I am anxious, help me trust Your character and rest in Your unbreakable promise. Amen.