Our scripture this morning is Romans 12:11-13 (NLT).
Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Paul has a number of Proverb-like instructions in this passage. While he gave specific guidance to different congregations depending on their situations, Paul was always consistent in his teaching, never wavering from the things Jesus taught. We can be confident in our hope because it is a promise from Christ Himself.
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Paul writes “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus”. We can see the same lesson as in today’s passage. Here he includes Jesus’ command to care for those in need, being generous to all.
Being patient in trouble is often hard for us. We need to ask for God’s guidance before jumping into our efforts. However, it doesn’t mean we are to sit idly by when we or others encounter difficulty. This active patience comes only through the presence of the Holy Spirit and our surrender to God’s will for us. Paul knew what it was to be changed by God’s love and to go in His name, and we all are called to the same mission.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and care through faithful people in our lives. Help us to follow the example of those who have gone before us, loving You and all Your children. Amen.
