Day Thirty Four - Joyful in Hope

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Romans 12:12

What better way could we live our lives than being; ‘joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer?’

I was reminded of these statements during a recent online request from a younger minister to, ‘take to our knees in prayer’. I duly complied but being of a certain age I found getting to my knees easier than I did getting up. Having flailed around like some beached whale, I eventually found a piece of furniture which would not only bear my weight but would also take the downforce required to heave my body up again. So, I sat huffing and puffing as if I had just completed a marathon (something I have done!). Family rushed from other rooms to check my wellbeing. Despite my dishevelled state I told them I was ok and there was nothing to worry about. I consoled my weary bones by believing the effort was not too bad, it was worth it, and it will be easier next time. I was joyful in the hope that the activity would be easier next time, patient in my affliction of trying to get up and whilst I was on the floor, faithful in prayer.

But Christian hope is different. This hope is based more on faith, a belief that our Lord will return. As we read in Hebrews 11:1, ‘Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.’ Hope without faith is more akin to wishful thinking. Extracting myself from a kneeling position might be easier next time, but that would require weight loss plus strengthening and flexibility exercises. And that hope is probably beyond my current faith level. However, my faith in God and what Jesus did for me is rock solid. I know that with the help of the Holy Spirit I can be ‘joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer?’

What about you? Do you have faithful confidence in what you hope and pray for? Are you willing to get on your knees physically, or metaphorically, before God and pray for both yourself and others?

Perhaps you are feeling a little low right now. You are not alone. Many, or possibly most, of us are struggling with the impact of COVID-19. Remember, 2020 has been tough, so accept that it is ok to be a little down. Pray for God’s help.

Finally, we all need a little support and encouragement. So, as we are in Advent, I would recommend reading the following verses from Romans 12, from which the quotation above is taken. Our Advent passage is Romans 12:9-18 which contains the four key words for each service; love, joy, peace, and hope.

Romans 12 - Love in Action

Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Michael Rolton