12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Because of our hope in Christ we can persevere in the pressures of life. This is the second of three exhortations in this verse.
be patient [remain under] in tribulation [pressure],
Christians are to hang in there when it comes to trials. The translation “patience” is too weak. The Greek word for “patience” means to remain under. We remain under the difficulty with bulldog tenacity. We do not try to sublimate our bad situation with something other than Christian principles. During times of pressure it is important to maintain stability and steadfastness. It is important not to give up or cave in. We are to hold our ground when problems arise. Proper orientation to suffering will carry the Christian through his troubles.
PRINCIPLE:
Christians do not need to let troubles get them down.
APPLICATION:
There is a need for constant perseverance in the Christian life in a God-honoring manner. We must give our constant attention to this, otherwise the trials of life will overwhelm us.
There is no escape from trials down here. However, when our earthly situation is dark, it is at that point the believer rises above the problems and clearly sees what is ahead. Many of us will not look up until we are laid low. Pain is part of God’s plan for us.
1 Pe 4:19, Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
Biblical patience is not a passive acquiescence to fate. Rather, it is an attitude that adjusts to tribulation with proper biblical perspective. A person with this attitude can take a great deal of stress. There is no need for this kind of Christian to escape into some form of sublimation such as drink, drugs, or overeating. The believer can do this because he is confident in God’s sovereign guidance on his circumstances.
Ac 14:22, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
