Shedding a Little Light
“Beloved: Bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.” 2 Tim 1:8b
Prayer. Fasting. Almsgiving.
We all bear our burdens as they come, but how well do we persevere? If the crisis lasts too long, what do we do? In a failing job or relationship, do we cut and run? Or do we try harder and hang in there? Do we put in the time? Do we work with patience? When the going gets rough do we head out to the nearest exit? Do we take our marbles and go home?
Often, we want things, but we do not invest the time to build the things we want. Whether it is actual buildings or relationships, it takes time to form the foundation and then create the structure. We are impatient and want the finished product right away, but for the good to be lasting, we need to take the time it takes to persevere through the labor and to endure a few setbacks along the way. The answers to problems do not always come right away and we must wait, wait, and wait some more. Endurance and perseverance are what we need. If it is worth having, it is worth fighting for and worth the work it takes to make it happen.
We need the desert time, and we need the trials, but how can we endure and persevere? Prayer! Prayer is the answer. Pray for answers. Pray for resolution. Pray for patience. Pray for endurance. Pray for the strength to persevere. Pray for your enemies. Whatever you do, pray and always …