Frequently our hopes and prayers are based on wanting something specific to happen - provision because of financial difficulties, for healing or for suffering not to happen. If thse things are taken care of, then folk believe they will be happy or joyful.
Here's what Paul says: "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12) In other words be joyful in the act of hope, patient during trials of affliction, and faithful in the act of prayer.
Paul then follows this up with the advice to concentrate our actions on sharing God’s resources with other people. He knows the more we concentrate on helping others, the less we will center our thoughts on ourselves. It should bring us joy as we share hope with others. Paul says, "Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality (Romans 12:13) By doing this we demonstrate our hope in the Lord.
Our motivation is based on what Jesus said: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
(Matthew 25:40)
Blessings.
Mike and Daphne.
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