Hopeful and Patient

Do you consider yourself a hopeful person?

The apostle Paul tells us in Romans 12:12 to “rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” It's interesting to see a word like tribulation or affliction, as some translations write, contrasted with hope.

It’s so easy to rejoice when we’re hopeful, but it’s even easier to get discouraged and frustrated when we experience any sort of difficulty or trouble, especially at work. We may even want God to move quickly to fix whatever’s happening to us.

Christ-followers cannot escape affliction and tribulation. In fact, it’s the hallmark of a believer. Jesus tells us in John 15:18 that we will be hated because the world also hated him. I imagine that Paul had something similar in mind when he wrote his letter to the Romans. He encourages the Romans, as we can be encouraged today, to push through and persevere through our trouble.

And in these situations, whether in hope of tribulation, we should be constant in prayer. If we’re honest, it’s effortless to pray to God when things are going well. What about when dealing with a challenging client, project, or coworker? Is it still a simple task to talk to God?

Through prayer, God makes us fit for our circumstances. He equips us to deal with those around us who will also have an opportunity to be changed through the work Christ is doing in and through us. We can always reach out to Jesus to enjoy positive times, endure through difficult times, and pray at all times. Let’s carry hope and patience with us in the marketplace. It may just rub off on others.

DAILY CHALLENGE

If you encounter a difficult situation, let Jesus become your focal point. Start by thanking him for another chance to stand for him and work for him, and let him know that you will be thankful for him no matter what happens.