HOPE IN HARDSHIP
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.
Romans 5:3-4 (NLT)
I love running. I've recently begun training for another marathon, which means lots of hours of training to endure the entire 26.2 miles on race day. My son has also taken an interest in running. He asks me all the time to go running with me. But his idea of going on a run with me is very different from my training regimen. He wants to race around the cul-de-sac in an all-out sprint. There's zero endurance to his running. He just gives it everything he's got until he's completely burned out.
How's your endurance? I don't mean as a marathon training partner but in your faith, in your journey with Jesus, as a Christ-following disciple. Are you able to persevere through the problems and trials? Or do you throw everything at it and then just burn out? Paul lays out a clear progression for us in the passage above. When our endurance grows, it develops strength of character. And that character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
So, how does one grow their endurance? My not-so-sophisticated answer is a little at a time over a period of time. So, how can you trust God a little more today? It doesn't have to be some grandiose gesture. What small, simple step of obedience can you take today? The hardest step on any training run I take is always the first. So, what is that first step for you? Or that next step? Ask God to grant you the clarity and courage to move.
APPLICATION: Take at least ten minutes to get alone, still and silent. Ask God to show you your next step. Then, sit in that silence and solitude and listen for the Spirit.
PRAYER: Father, guide my steps. Show me what my next step of obedience is as I seek to honor You in every facet of my life. In Jesus' name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?