Patience Grows as We Suffer
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Lord, please help me to always know that you are with me and for me. That when I’m in the valleys of life you’re right by my side for my good, just as is the shepherd for his sheep.
READ:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4 (NIV)
REFLECT:
I have been blessed with many things. One thing I have not been blessed with, at least from a worldly perspective, is my digestive system. I have endured illness that has led to the removal of what one would think is a vital organ, and then the adjustment to a new normal. Not long ago complications developed that made me fear eating because some of the time my digested food would become blocked, unable to pass through my system. My human self has hated dealing with the pain and uncertainty of these health issues, especially the period before we could figure out what was wrong. Despite the suffering, my saved self feels blessed to have had these opportunities to persevere.
I accepted Christ as my lord and savior prior to my most recent health challenges. It was during my most desperate hours that I felt closest to Jesus. It was in those moments that I was filled with gratitude for all he has done for me. Though I was suffering in the moment, I knew that it was only a small part of my story, a story filled with so many wonderful gifts. I also was able to reflect on his suffering for me, suffering that paved a way for me to have eternal life with God.
No one desires the opportunity to face trials and tribulations. Facing them alone might be too much to bear. With Jesus by your side, however, you can endure anything. Our time on this earth is a flash of light compared to eternity with Jesus. Accept his gift of eternal life and rest easy knowing something greater than you could possibly imagine is to come.
APPLY:
Are you facing difficult circumstances? If so, call out to Jesus for help. Pray for what you need. Pray for what you want. Express gratitude for his sacrifice for you. No matter our circumstances, we can express gratitude for his gift of eternal life.
CLOSING PRAYER:
God of the waiting,
teach us to embody patience,
never rushing into action without your signal.
You have created a world steeped in patience;
nature follows its rhythms without haste.
May we learn from this design,
stopping to pause and wonder and praise.
When our hearts are weary from waiting,
remind us that we do not wait alone for Christ dwells in us.
Amen.