Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer. —Romans 12:12 (NRSVUE)
After completing my secondary-level education, I was unable to meet the requirement for college courses. After being at home for a year, a distant cousin told me I could find work in the city where many companies offered good pay; some would even pay for further study or professional training. My cousin said he could provide food and housing. With high hopes I went to the city with what little money I had.
After two months, however, I was still searching for a job. The house where we stayed had no proper light or water. It was crowded, and sometimes we had no food to eat.
Some days I felt bitter, angry, or filled with self-pity. Other days, I would tell myself to be patient and keep looking for opportunities. I prayed that God would make a way. Eventually I accepted my struggles and determined to be patient, though it was not easy.
Finally, after one year and six months I joined a construction company as a day worker, then as a driver, and then as a section supervisor with some study privileges. This experience taught me how to live out today’s scripture: “Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, grant us patience in our struggles, and help us to remember your faithfulness to us. Amen.
Thought for the day: Today I will have patience and persevere in prayer.
Paul Kurpengmund Anda (Papua New Guinea)
