“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12
Every occupation has its fundamentals. Professional athletes practice the rudiments of their sport. Interior decorators strip down rooms to bare walls. Surgeons wash their hands before they operate. We all have foundations of simple basics that we live by, not only in our jobs, but in our faith, in our relationships, in everything we do! Foundations are meant to be built upon. If we look at lives and are not happy with what we have built, it’s time to go back to the basics and evaluate our underpinnings.
While this passage from Romans may not be as familiar to us as The Ten Commandments, The Beatitudes, The Golden Rule or John 3:16, it’s words and implications can be a strong, sure basis for our lives.
Be joyful in hope as a part of our foundation. We can choose to let the ordinary happenings of the day bring us joy. We can be hopeful for what’s ahead, celebrating God is with us and our hope is in Him.
Be patient in affliction as a part of our foundation. We can trust that any hardship will produce in us a greater dependence on God.
Be faithful in prayer as a part of our foundation. We can intentionally set aside moments to commune with God, believing He wants us to know Him and that He wants to hear from us.
Consider your foundations. What are the basics you operate from in your walk with God and in your relationships? What foundations need to be repaired? In what areas do you need to lay a new foundation? Reflecting on the Romans passage, how can you pursue being joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer?
Prayer: Father God, thank you for Your wisdom. Help me to understand Your words so I can build strong foundations upon them. Show me how to find joy in You in every moment. Let me patient in my circumstances and grow closer to You. May I always make time to talk to You and listen for Your word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
