Re:Verse reading–Romans 5:1-11 (day seven)
“We know that tribulation brings about perseverance”–v 3. I have a framed picture on my office wall. A gift from Holly, years ago. A picture of an umbrella and a single Greek word. Hupomeno. Usually translated “patience or perseverance”, the original word is literally “to remain under”. To stay under the pressure until you learned the lesson of it. To not run or seek safety, to seek God and growth instead.
The pastorate surprised me. Shouldn’t have, probably. The criticisms, the various needs calling for my attention and care, the pressure of decisions, facilities and staff, the first priority of prayer.
At first, I wanted to run! “This is impossible”, I said more than once. Over time, I learned the grace that Paul discovered. Slowly, powerfully, by the Spirit, stress began to shape ME, teach ME. The circumstances did not change. I did.
This is always God’s way. With all of us. You in?
