“3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,

4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope,

5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”

— Romans 5:3-5

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.

— Hebrews 11:6

“6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

— Philippians 4:6-7

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace and mercy to you from Jesus Christ.

Sometimes God uses delays and sufferings to work deeply in our lives—testing our motives, deepening our faith, developing our patience and aligning our will with His. And a lot of times only after God creates in us the circumstances that we require for His answer, will we open ourselves to ask God to direct our paths and to seek His council, instruction and guidance.

God also train and perfect His children through prayer life, His Words and His Holy Spirit. That is why we can hear the testimonies that God is a rewarder of those who diligently and patiently seek Him from those more experienced believers who can discern the voice of the Holy Spirit, who are serious prayers, even fasting prayers, and who are wise, godly, and well grounded in the words of the Scripture. May we all grow to be close followers of the Holy Spirit, to be patient prayers and wise lovers of God’s words.