Romans 8:25, But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.
Perseverance, or patience or long suffering , is considered to be one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. There are times when it becomes challenging to remain patient in our hopeful expectations. This difficulty may arise from our vivid imagination and visualisations, or even from our past experiences and the stories we have heard or read about.
Nonetheless, it is crucial to remember that if our hope is anchored in God, it will always be in His terms and His ways. We must acknowledge that we are unable to fully comprehend His grand plan and the steps He takes to fulfill it. It is in these moments of uncertainty that I find solace in one of my favourite verses from the second part of Ecclesiastes 3:11. It states that "no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end." This verse encompasses the entire scope of God's work and serves as a reminder that even when we cannot make sense of our circumstances, God is at work, orchestrating everything for our good.
In addition to Ecclesiastes, the first epistle to the Corinthians provides further reassurance. In Chapter 2 verse 9, it affirms that "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." This verse underscores the importance of unwavering love for God and its role in fostering perseverance.
Understanding the significance of perseverance leads us to question ourselves daily about the things we hope for. It is through this self-reflection that our perseverance is strengthened by relying on His strength. We can find comfort in the knowledge that God is able to strengthen all who love Him.
Ultimately, it is the love we have for God that sustains our perseverance. When faced with challenges and uncertainties, let us remember to cling to our hope and trust in His divine plan, knowing that He has prepared extraordinary things for those who love Him.