Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. – (Romans 12:12, NIV)
Be happy because of the hope you have. Be patient when you have troubles. Pray all the time. – (Romans 12:12, ERV)
Let this hope burst forth within you, releasing a continual joy. Don’t give up in a time of trouble, but commune with God at all times. – (Romans 12:12, TPT)
I imagine that these words are a timely reminder for many, as this season of waiting seems extraordinarily long. Yes, I know there have been many throughout history who have endured far worse for far longer, yet this is our season of waiting and staying and missing what we all knew before, and it is a challenge. Thankfully, we do have hope. Hope in God’s presence right now, which brings us joy and peace and strength, and hope in knowing that our current season and circumstances will not last forever; they have an end date. Knowing there is an end does help with patience, yet there are moments that I wonder if my capacity to be patient has come to an end. Of course, God, in His wisdom, reminds us to be faithful to pray – to commune with God at all times. In those moments when I am weary and worn and feeling like I might lose my mind, if I slow down, take a breath, and turn my attention to He who gives me all I need, patience comes as peace within me is restored. May we be intentional to commune with God, for He is our source of hope, joy and patience that helps us persevere, no matter what lies before us.
For where there is hope, 
Joy too, shall spring forth;
It comes from our trust,
In God, our true Source.
Patient endurance,
When life gets too hard;
Strength when we’re weary,
Our light and our guard.
In all things, choose pray,
Commune with the Lord;
In love, He’s present,
And grace He’ll afford.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our source of joy in hope, patience in trials, and the One in whom we can trust, always. Thank You that You hear us and love us through all things. Forgive us for our lack of dependence on You. Teach us to trust You more, for You are the One who gives us joy and hope, patience and strength; all that we need to persevere, even when things seem too much. Show us how to love those around us in practical and tangible ways, so that they may feel hope and joy and patience, as they are encouraged to persevere. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You for the joy we have in knowing You, for You are our hope and strength and all that we need to keep pressing on. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. – Psalm 31:24
Revelations In Writing 