Hope and Perseverance

I enjoy being part of a non-denominational Bible study. Last week’s lesson included the challenge of waiting on God.

A lady in my group said, “God is not a short-order cook!” I liked that. I said, “We go to the restaurant, place our order, and wait for our food. Why do we think God should answer our prayers at the snap of a finger?”

The psalmist had mentioned hard times before, but this time he says he’s worn out waiting for God to rescue him (Psalm 119:81). Have you ever felt that way? I have, but I also have learned that God does answer prayer in His own good time, and it’s worth waiting for (Ecclesiastes 3:11).                                                       

The psalmist was a realist who chose to focus on God, not his circumstances. He said, “I’ve almost been wiped from the earth, but I haven’t forsaken your precepts (v. 87). How well do we know God’s word? How committed are we to waiting on the Lord to fulfill His promises?

Like the psalmist, we should refuse to give up or give in. He believed God loved him and could revive him (v. 88). Because he had faith in God and His word, he was willing to stake his life on it, though it required waiting. (Read: Psalm 119:81-88).

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial. Because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him (James 1:12).

Under constant threats of death, Charlie Kirk persevered in his public testimony. His murder in broad daylight in front of thousands of witnesses was not the end. His death caused people worldwide to rally around his message of faith and freedom.

Charlie is an example of missionary C. T. Studd’s famous quote: “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Now the challenge is ours. How are we responding to it?

Pixabay: Adult, Alone, Bible; Pexels.