Pillars!

Pillars!

constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength],

Romans 12:12 AMP

The Inspiration:

Paul writes to the church in Rome, and this was a church that had its fair share of trials and tough times. One thing God makes clear to all who will follow Him is the assurance of His presence. One other thing He also makes clear is that we wil have to go through trials and tough times for His best to be revealed in and through us. It would appear that God does not commit great treasures into a vessel He has not first tested and has found to be pliable and moldable in His hands. Too many times, we have strong opinions about what we think we should be, where we think our skills and gifts are best suited, or we want to decide the platforms and opportunities that wil best showcase our talents. As great as all of these may be, nothing is more important to God than finding a vessel He can trust and use as He sees fit. The quality of the vessel isn't about its worth by itself, but by the value of the One who is molding it, and then applying it as best as He sees fit. 

The Contention:

That is why today's verse is critical: it is a window into the plan of God for me. If I know whose I am, it helps me clarify the WHAT and the HOW behind my actions. I cannot speak or act carelessly, because I understand what is at stake, as well as the One I represent. As I live on a daily basis, the pillars laid out in today's verse must be my focus. First, hope is that fire that keeps me focused, even when all is going to pieces around me. If there was no eternal future for me, why would I deny myself the pleasures of this world? I keep my focus on God because I believe His Word thar there is life after this earthly life. This eternal life was secured by faith in Jesus. The second one is patience; I have come to know that the value of patience is only determined by the experiences God brings my way. How can I claim to have patience if I have not been tested? Can I claim patience if I have never had to wait for a promise to be fulfilled?

The Conclusion:

The third pillar is prayer. It is a sign of total dependence that I ask God for help on a daily basis. He is the Almighty God, yet He does not force Himself on anyone. He is the God who changes people, circumstances and situations, and nothing is impossible for Him to do, yet He waits for me to make the approach. His standing promise is that He will never turn His back on me. Wisdom, guidance and support are all available for me as I ask. God knows all I need, but I must make it a habit to speak with Him regularly. All these three pillars are inter-related. No matter what my today looks like, I know there is a great tomorrow ahead. That clarity keeps me going even when I do not fully understand what God is doing now. I go to Him often in prayer, getting guidance and leading for every step of the way. God is at work, and His help is always available. God's time of favour is here.