Three Part Cure for a Bitter Pill

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

— Romans 12:12

Paul’s letters usually included specific instructions on the best way to live a Christian life, and Romans is no exception. It’s filled with advice and guidance for every follower of Christ. Paul knew all too well how difficult the faith journey can be. And he faced persecution like most of us will never see.

It’s easy for new believers and those who have grown stagnant in their faith to become distracted. So he summed up how we should respond to just about everything in three simple actions. Rejoice in hope. Be patient in tribulation. Be constant in prayer.

Hardships in life are inevitable, and becoming bitter and resentful is a normal reaction. The world tells us we should harbor a grudge. Scripture says we should rejoice, be patient and pray. Our culture tells us we should retaliate when someone hurts us. The Bible says to rejoice, be patient and pray.

The great thing is that we rejoice in the hope of a living God, who loves and cares for us more than we can even imagine. We wait with patience for Him to act because He always does. And we pray for our hearts to align with His will.

Because God is faithful, we don’t have to accept bitterness. When that temptation arises, we know the cure. Rejoice, be patient and pray.

Today’s One Thing

Set aside specific time to rejoice and thank God for His faithfulness in the past. Remember that experience as you wait on Him.

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