I started writing a devotional when I was going through unemployment after university in 2014. It was very challenging for me and I still wrestle with my identity being wrapped up in ‘what I do’ at times. I had only written it for seven days, but thought I would share it here to maybe encourage someone going through a tough time regarding work or lack of it. 

Day Two

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:1-5

When we are in the middle of a trial, it can seem incomprehensible that we can have peace during this time. It is through Christ Jesus and our faith in Him which gives us abundant access to grace and peace. What is so amazing is that by having access to this grace that pours down into our lives, we are able to stand. There are days when even standing seems like a struggle. Perhaps we are not to stand with our feet, but rather we are to stand firm to this faith in Jesus. We are to stand firm on the promises of God. We are to stand steadfast in the Lord and boast in the hope we have each day – that is the hope in the glory of the One who made us.

When we stand in full assurance of who the Lord is, and that this is a God who is very much for us, we can boldly face our sufferings and know that we are growing more like Jesus through our trials. In our sufferings we learn how to persevere as it is Christ who strengthens us. When we learn how to persevere, we develop a more Christ-like character and follow the example of those who have gone before us, including Jesus Christ Himself. Through Christ’s sufferings we have an overflow of hope. We have hope for today. He will sustain us because He promises to never leave us, nor forsake us.

Prayer for today…

Father, we come to you today, empty handed and with a struggling heart. Thank you that we can come to you and that you have supplied all our needs through your Son, Jesus Christ. Even though our circumstances are difficult and we suffer through them, thank you that during these trials we are able to become more Christ-like in our character and we can persevere with full confidence that you are with us always. We thank you for the hope that we have in Jesus and for all that He has done and continues to do in our lives. Lord, you are good and help us to declare that in the midst of our darkest days. Help us to stand firm. Amen