"希望を見ずにキリストを見よ。"

The heart of this quote is simple yet profound: it’s a call to shift your focus from your own desires and dreams to Jesus. Instead of pinning your future on what you hope might happen, or on your own plans, look to Christ as your anchor and guide.

This idea has deep roots in Christian teachings. Historically, it’s a reminder that human hopes can be fleeting or misguided, but faith in Jesus offers a steadfast foundation. For Christians, Christ represents unchanging love, truth, and salvation—things that are infinitely more reliable than any human ambition. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have hopes and dreams, but rather that our ultimate trust and focus should be on Christ.

Take, for instance, the story of Horatio Spafford. Picture a successful lawyer in the 1800s. He had it all: a thriving business, a beautiful family—everything looked perfect. But then, tragedy struck. He lost his son to illness, and soon after, his business was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire. If that wasn’t enough, his four daughters drowned in a shipwreck. Standing on the brink of despair, Spafford could have easily lost all hope. But instead, he turned to Christ. He penned the famous hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul,” which speaks of peace despite unimaginable loss. His hope wasn’t rooted in his circumstances but in his faith.

So how do you apply this in your daily life? Start by examining where your hope lies. Are you overly reliant on your career, relationships, or personal goals for happiness? Try shifting that focus. Begin your day with a prayer or meditation centered on Christ. When things go sideways—and they often do—remind yourself that your faith is your anchor. It offers stability amidst life’s unpredictable tides.

Imagine you’re navigating a particularly rough patch at work. Deadlines are whooshing by like errant comets, your boss is breathing down your neck, and you’re starting to question your competence. In this moment, the advice to look to Christ instead of your hope becomes practical. Instead of spiraling into anxiety or losing yourself in frustration, take a moment to breathe and refocus. Pray or read a passage from the Bible. Reflect on the bigger picture—your faith, your values, your purpose beyond just your job. This can provide a powerful reset, helping you regain perspective and peace.

Think about it like this. You’re on a sailboat in a storm. If you’re only looking at the waves, you’re bound to feel overwhelmed and lost. But if you fix your eyes on the lighthouse—that steady, guiding light—you’ll find your way. Similarly, in life’s tumultuous moments, looking to Christ can provide the guidance and comfort you need.

Incorporating this wisdom into your life might not be easy at first. We’re so used to relying on our own plans and hopes. But with practice, it can transform the way you handle challenges. Next time you face uncertainty or disappointment, pause and redirect your focus. Engage with your faith, and let it guide you through the storm. This shift in perspective can make all the difference, helping you find peace and stability no matter what comes your way.