Joy by Susie Hilgart

Staff, December 13, 2020

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ~ Romans 12:12

This isn’t a verse that I refer to regularly.  But as we journey through Advent 2020 it may become my daily reciting verse…a verse applicable to just about every situation.

This year has been filled with “afflictions”; the Pandemic completely roadblocked our daily routines, we lost loved ones to illness and we watched so many people struggle with medical, emotional, financial and relational issues.
Afflictions are normal and expected in our lives, but how do we endure?  Maybe Paul gives us a clue in this simple, straightforward verse.

·       Seek God through prayer.  He’s always available to listen.  Lean on Him!

·       Knowing our God cultivates an inner patience, peace and trust.

·       That trust builds hope.

·       And hope can lead us to joy.

So…we can endure.

Gracious God, Help us trust that you use difficult times to bring good.  Help us to see hope and feel joy each day through those around us. And use us as well to give that same hope and joy to others.  We ask this in your name. Amen.