Joyful, Patient & Faithful
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“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful, in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
Hope means to believe, desire or trust. Anxiety and worry stifle hope. Some days it’s hard to hope. Oftentimes we hardly dare hope because we might be disappointed, but to be joyful in hope? If God is our hope then hope is well founded. Instead of nail biting hope, we can choose instead, to be joyful, in hope.
Psalm 25:3 says, “No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame.”
Patient means long-suffering; quietly and steadily persevering. Do you ever feel like the most impatient person on the planet? Some days I do. God doesn’t take afflictions from us. They’re common to us all. He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Through the presence of His Holy Spirit he dwells within us, casting out fear, helping us to move deeper into the waters of uncertainty knowing that as we strive for patience he will guide us through the times of waiting.
Isaiah 48:10 says, “See, I have refined you, though not as silver, I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.”
Faithful means constant; reliable. Prayer is the key to joyful hope. Prayer is the key to patience in trials. Prayer brings us into the very presence of the Almighty God, the creator of all things, the ruler of all. He draws close to listen to you this day.
James 5:16 tells us that, “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”
Dear Father God, thank you for the sacrifice of Your dear Son whose precious blood was shed for us. Thank you for the indwelling presence of your Holy Spirit who guides us each day. May we be encouraged as You teach us how to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer, Amen.
Question: If you meditate on this verse from Romans 12:12, how will it change your day?
About the Author: Beverley Rayner
