ENDURE IT
Romans 5:1-11 (3) – We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. (NLT)
There are three general schools of thought I have observed. The first is that people feel, because they are born again, they should never suffer. The second is that many believe that their present suffering is because of their past sins, and the third are those who think that they are suffering so they can enjoy later. All these might seem true, but the fact is that trials are part of human experience (John 16:33). The life of Apostle Paul presents a perfect example.
In Acts 24, Paul was imprisoned again, and this time, it seemed that Felix the Governor liked him because he relaxed the rules and even brought his wife to listen to his teachings (vs 23-24). I can imagine what Paul would think at that point, that God would use Felix to set him free! Instead, Felix was only interested in being bribed; therefore, he left Paul in jail for two more years (vs 26-27). Is that not a big blow, that despite Paul’s work for God, he could not be saved? This man endured, knowing that with God, all things work together (Romans 8:28). More so, in Philippians 1:21, he said, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain”.
Beloved, can you persevere as Paul did, that in the face of troubles, you still wait on God? As seen in our Bible reading, we are to rejoice in our circumstances because they are developers of character. Enough of bread and butter Christianity; challenges are part of a believer’s cross. Be ready! Keep on praying, and hold on. Regardless of the condition, God is good. He shall never leave you comfortless (Holy Spirit). Above all, look beyond the present and fix your gaze on the glory ahead (Romans 8:18-19).
PRAYER
Hymn: Jesus Saves — Priscilla J. Owens (1882)
1. Father, help me carry my cross and to stay active in You.
(MIDNIGHT PRAYER)
1. Father, please terminate every war of the mind and crisis of identity in my life.
2. Holy Spirit, please uproot the seed of stubbornness in my life and walk with God.
3. Father, help me, my family, leaders and the Church to ensure till the end.
WAIT ON GOD!
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