09/22/2026
Our lives are filled with ups and downs. Times when everything is going our way, and times when everything is falling apart. Our experiences and circumstances are different season-to-season, month-to-month, even day-to-day. It's no wonder so many people struggle with anxiety and depression! In our text today, Paul gives us 3 instructions to help us stay firm in our faith and navigate the changing waters of our lives.
First we are to rejoice in hope! This doesn't mean we are to force a smile and pretend everything is okay even when it's not. It means that as followers of Christ, in all circumstances we can still find joy in our hope that Jesus gives us. The hope in His promises, in His power, and in His faithfulness. Jesus is always faithful to us, His beloved. Our lives are held by Him, and our sufferings here will not have final authority over us. When our circumstances offer little encouragement, we can turn to Christ and stand strong in knowing He has the victory and that victory will be shared with us!
We must also be patient in our afflictions. Time and time again, God's Word tells us to persevere. Sometimes, our obedience to Christ will lead us to places that are uncomfortable or even scary. We must remember that the trials and tribulations we go through in this life are not always meant for punishment, but to strengthen our faith. Faith that is untested is fragile at best. It is through our afflictions that we learn to call on Jesus for strength that does not fail. We learn to trust in Him who holds the universe in His hands. What seems overwhelming to us is nothing compared to the power of Jesus who created all things with nothing more than a word. So be patient, and keep following the footsteps of the One who will lead you through even the darkest of afflictions!
Finally, we must be persistent in prayer. Prayer is our way to communicate with Almighty God. Prayer is how we build a relationship with our Savior and the God who loves us! It is not a last-ditch effort, something to try when all else fails. It is our go-to weapon in this life! Through prayer we can give God all the credit for everything His mercy has given us. Through prayer we can speak to Him about whatever is on our hearts. Praying for ourselves, or for others--prayer allows us to ask God for help in this life. It's how we turn our burdens over to Him so we can continue on. It's how we ask for advice when our own knowledge and understanding isn't enough. Prayer gives us access to the same power that created the heavens and the earth, and that's enough power to handle ANY of the problems we may be facing in this life!
In the highs and lows of this life, our faith in Christ can remain steady if we follow those 3 instructions. Rejoice, be patient, and pray! We may not be able to control the waters or the storms around us, but we can control how steadily we navigate--always keeping Christ at the helm.
Today's prayer: Gracious Heavenly Father, anchor my joy in the things You have promised rather than what I see in front of me today. Give me patience when hardships continue, and teach me to return to You consistently in prayer instead of trying to carry everything alone. Amen.
