Close and commendable

 BRP 1 Pet. 2: 19-20

Have your ever prayed for patience? God has a way of helping us to learn patience, through trials that require us to do just that…have patience. Often we will feel it is a daunting task that we regret praying for. Not because we don’t want to honor God with our learning of patience, but because it can be extremely difficult to grow closer to God in this way. He wants our trust, wants us to depend upon Him. Yet we are weak and unable to do a lot on our own.

In these verses He wants to remind us to ever be close to Him. That way we can stand strong during the trials, tribulations in this world, as well as learn to cling to Him during those times. The reason why God wants us to rely on Him, is because we can do a lot of things in our own strengths just as the lost do. Yet, when we cling to and exalt our Savior through the trials beyond our human strength, He gets the glory and we are commended by Him and our relationship is closer to Him. Even in our punishments of life we still can cling to Him, (I think of my dad saying, “This is going to hurt me more than you.”) He knows what is best for us and what will shape us into His image. He never said that molding us would be easy, but He did say He was with us though. So, when it is time for you to receive your “spiritual spankings,” for your wrong doings cling to Him. When you are in a season getting beat, whether literally or by the storms of life, know that God is with You. That is why we are to pray without ceasing, to have time with Him daily, and spend time in the Holy Word of God. Allow Him an active place in your life.

Remember that of Job. If you haven’t read his story or haven’t in a while go and read it. Then, think back to what I just said.

God, loves you and longs for the relationship with you that brings Him honor and glory.