As we continue to read through Paul’s guidance in Romans 12, we first see that we are rejoice in hope. Rejoicing includes celebration and being filled with joy. It is different than being happy. Hope is not wishful thinking but being confident in the promises of God and assured of him fulfilling them.
Paul then states that we are to be patient in affliction. Patience is difficult. We want what we want, and we want it now. Our culture is one of instant gratification. Affliction includes being in pain, perhaps misery. So, we are to trust God and patiently wait for him as we are suffering.
A very important reminder is to persevere in prayer. Paul purposely states this following his guidance to be patient in affliction. Our patience and perseverance come through prayer. It is not that we do nothing; we pray, asking God to intervene, asking him to strengthen us. Our prayers should always start with thanking God for his blessings. As we thank him, peace fills us.
Contribute to the needs of others is an important admonition. As Paul states, we are to do so for both those in the body of Christ and strangers. There are more people in need today than there has been in decades. The needs include food, clothing, and shelter. But it doesn’t end there. People desperately need to know Jesus, even if they do not realize that is their need. As we humbly serve them, we are given an opportunity to share the good news with them, the news that can change their lives.
I pray we all hold on to the hope we have in Jesus. I pray we are patient and persevere in prayer. I pray each one of us will seek to help those in need and tell them the good news of Jesus. Hold on to hope. Be patient. Persevere in prayer. Help those in need. Speak the good news.
Romans 12:12-13 Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; pursue hospitality to strangers.
Marty Pressey 