In the midst of challenging times, it can be tempting for Christians to forget to be joyful. Yet, it is in the challenging moments of life that God proves Himself faithful. It is in the challenging moments that God refines us. As James tells us, we are to “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4).
That we can be joyful should not suggest that our trials are trivial. There are many who, in the wake of COVID-19, are facing very real challenges. Truth be told, there are members of the body of Christ around the world for whom sickness is an unfortunate norm, scarcity of resources a continual hardship, and persecution an imminent threat. Even as we rejoice, we should remember that we are fragile … that the systems on which we depend are fragile. Our fragility should point us to the enduring nature of the Kingdom of God and give us a heart of gratitude that overflows with rejoicing knowing that in Christ we are now members of God’s family.
O Lord, may we find the joy of the Lord even in the midst of our trials. We pray that You would teach us what it means to see beyond our troubles, knowing that You are with us. Even so, Lord God, we see the challenges those around us are facing. We ask You to intervene, to be with those who are in need, to prompt us to participate with You as You care for your people, and, most of all, to restore creation and to make all things new. We pray that we would not be anxious, but that You would give us Your peace. Let us live differently in the midst of trial so that the world might see You in us. Amen.
James Spencer @ https://moodycenter.org/articles/let-us-pray/
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. -Romans 12:12, ESV
Prayers for Hope 