Hope, Affliction, Prayer
Date: November 13, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse: Romans 12:12 (NIV) "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
L - Listen for God's Word and Pray: Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts, ready to receive Your Word. Speak to us through this verse, that we may understand its meaning and apply it to our lives. Grant us the strength to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
E - Explore the History and Meaning: The Apostle Paul wrote the Book of Romans as a letter to the Christians in Rome. In this portion of his letter, Paul is giving practical advice on how Christians should live out their faith. This verse provides a concise guide for Christian living. It encourages believers to maintain a positive and faithful attitude in various circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of hope, patience, and prayer in the life of a follower of Christ.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
"Be joyful in hope": Encourages us to maintain a sense of joy and optimism because of our hope in Christ.
"Patient in affliction": Advises us to endure and remain patient during times of difficulty and suffering.
"Faithful in prayer": Highlights the importance of consistent and unwavering prayer in our relationship with God.
This verse reminds us of the qualities and attitudes that should characterize our walk with Christ.
S - Summarize and Share:
I don’t know about you, but life can be so hectic! Especially as we prepare for the upcoming Holidays. We often find ourselves searching for moments of peace, joy, and connection with something greater than ourselves. Romans 12:12 invites us to uncover these treasures in the most unexpected places.
The verse begins with a simple yet profound instruction: "Be joyful in hope." What does this mean for us? It means that, as followers of Christ, we have a wellspring of joy within us, rooted in the hope we have through Him. This joy isn't limited to the mountaintop experiences of life but extends even into the valleys of struggle and uncertainty.
Life's journey can be challenging, filled with obstacles and trials that test our patience and resolve. The verse continues with, "Patient in affliction." In these moments of affliction, we're called not to lose heart but to remain patient, to endure with a spirit of perseverance. It's a reminder that God's plan is continually unfolding, even in the midst of our hardships.
Lastly, "faithful in prayer." This phrase underlines the importance of maintaining a vibrant connection with God through prayer. It's a call to be unwavering in our commitment to communicate with our Creator. Prayer is our lifeline, a way to share our hearts, express our gratitude, and listen for His gentle guidance.
Personally, this verse has been a steadfast companion on my journey of faith. It reminds me that regardless of the challenges I face, there's a deep well of joy within me, sourced in the hope I have in Christ. It encourages me to stand firm in the face of adversity, knowing that God's perfect timing is at work. And it underscores the vital importance of prayer in nurturing my relationship with Him.
As we navigate the days ahead, let's embrace Romans 12:12 as our guide. Let's keep the flame of hope burning brightly, persevere with patience in life's trials, and remain steadfast in our commitment to prayer. In doing so, we'll discover that these qualities light our path with the radiant presence of God's love and grace.
4 Bible Cross References:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV): "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." This verse reinforces the call to rejoice, pray, and maintain a thankful heart.
James 1:2-4 (NIV): "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." James encourages us to find joy even in the midst of trials, echoing the idea of joy in hope.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV): "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Prayer is emphasized as a vital part of the Christian walk in Colossians.
Hebrews 10:23 (NIV): "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." This verse reinforces the importance of holding onto our hope in God's faithfulness.