"Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer."
Romans 12:12 (NRSV)
Prodigal Thoughts: Leave it to the apostle Paul to put things in perspective for us. He doesn’t try to cover up the fact that the Christian life is not without difficult times. When I read this verse, I think of the words of Isaiah 40:31 that says, "but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." I get a word picture of our posture. Rejoicing in hope, to me, is standing, hands raised much like the wings of an eagle. Being patient in suffering would be like running and not growing weary. Persevering in prayer would like walking and not growing faint. There are perfect times for each of these postures. Each can remind us of our relationship with God and how we should come to Him in worship. Whether it is hands raised and celebrating, worshipping in stillness due to our suffering, or on our knees as we ask for His presence and strength as we are pressing on toward Christlikeness. Emmanuel – God is with us. Our hope is always with us and we are never alone.
Prayer for today: Today, I pray a special blessing on all who are following Him. May He give us the grace we need to extend the grace needed for others who are not seeking Him. May we never give up hope on those whom He desires to save. I pray that He will impart all that we need to devote our lives to His work on this earth.
If you need prayer, please reply and I will pray for you. If you would like to talk about this verse or have questions, I’m always open for your feedback.
God’s grace on you…
Prodigal Thinker 