“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus” (Romans 15:4-5).
Trying times with their added weights of loneliness and difficulty test and purify your character. They are intended by God to increase your spiritual strength and stamina and to sharpen the optimism and confidence of your hope.
Satan is at his worst when you are at your weakest. “Stop wasting your time”, “Just quit”, “Curse God and die” are all mantras he perpetually bombards you with. His “free” advice is terribly overpriced and is lethal, if heeded.
Where exactly can a needy Christian find help when navigating such dire straits? Paul’s inspired words provide a clear answer—the Scriptures given by the God of patience and comfort.
The examples of Noah, Job, Abraham, Ruth, Esther, and a host of others affirm and reaffirm God’s faithfulness and the priceless value of living today in faithful obedience to Him.
Stay the course and finish it. Don’t drift or shrink back. Keep up the fight of faith. Draw comfort in the past victories the righteous have won because of God and their perseverance.
The God of patience and comfort is rooting for you. He has given you His word with its worthy examples of faithful perseverance. Draw strength and comfort from them and renew your hopeful trust in Jehovah. You will not be disappointed (Romans 5:5).