“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12). In Zimbabwe, many people are filled with hope. They are excited about the future, thrilled about the blessings they see, and eager to experience what God is doing in their lives. Yet, as the Bible reminds us, not all hope is anchored in the right place.
Consider the story of the two builders in Matthew 7:24-27. One man built his house on sand, and when the storms came, the house collapsed and was destroyed. The other built his house on a rock, and despite the storms, his house stood firm. Both men began with hope, and both invested effort into construction. Yet only the man who built on a solid foundation experienced lasting success.
This parable carries a critical lesson for anyone seeking prosperity, especially in Zimbabwe today. Many people are building businesses, investing in wealth, and pursuing increase—but the question we must ask is: are you building on sand or on the rock? Are your efforts centered on Christ, or are they built on emotion, societal trends, or human wisdom?
Psalm 127:1 warns, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” This verse reminds us that any effort outside God’s guidance risks being temporary. It may bring short-term results, yet ultimately it will fail when tested. Many in Zimbabwe are experiencing this firsthand. The hype around quick gains, opportunities, and success can be intoxicating, but when the foundation is not God-centered, prosperity is fleeting.
I recall the testimony of a Zimbabwean businessman who lost his business due to circumstances beyond his control. While many would view this as failure, he declared, “I refused to compromise.” His story illustrates a key spiritual principle: success measured outside God’s favor may be temporary, but integrity and alignment with God lay the groundwork for ultimate restoration. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Even losses, when aligned with God’s purpose, can lead to future gain.
In environments where corruption is prevalent and shortcuts appear to reward success, it is tempting to pursue strategies that lack spiritual alignment. But Galatians 6:7 reminds us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Many build on sand—on principles that bypass God—and eventually their efforts crumble. Conversely, building on the rock, grounded in biblical principles and led by the Holy Spirit, ensures that what we labor for is lasting, tested, and fruitful.
We must also recognize the emotional pitfalls in building. Decisions made from impulse or emotion, rather than prayerful discernment, often result in loss of peace and frustration. 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 teaches, “If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.” True success withstands testing; superficial foundations collapse.
As Zimbabweans, and indeed as believers worldwide, we are called to align our hope with God, build with integrity, and trust in His timing. Jeremiah 29:11 encourages us: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Let us anchor our faith and hope in the rock of Christ, ensuring that what we build will endure storms, challenges, and societal pressures.
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I pray that God will help you discern where to place your hope, align your efforts with His principles, and bless the work of your hands. May your labor not be in vain, and may your foundation in Christ protect you from loss and disappointment. In doing so, you will experience not only prosperity but also peace, joy, and fulfillment that is eternal.
