Wait for the Lord 

   “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27: 24) 

   It can be difficult to understand why people of God are so often subjected to the hatred and persecution of those who do not believe.  We tend to think that those who believe in and have faith in God should lead a trouble free life, but it doesn’t happen that way.  In many instances it is their very faith that causes the strife and pains they endure.

   “In the world you face persecution.  But take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16: 33)  These words of Jesus seem to tell us quite clearly that the people of God will not have an easy life; there will be times of trial and suffering.  But He has overcome the world, and we are to trust that all will be well in the end.

   I think we get hung up on our concept of time.  We can deal with difficulties for a few hours or even a couple of days but when they last or keep recurring we get frustrated.  Time is not of God; it is a human thing.  “But do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day.” (2 Peter 3: 8)  Eternity is beyond comprehension to us and each day seems like forever when things are not going well.

   We are tested and it is a test we must pass.  If we allow ourselves to lose faith because things are not going as we wished we will have lost the battle.  From the moment He began His ministry until the moment He died on the cross Jesus lived a life of disappointment, sorrow, and rejection.  Can we not share at least a small portion of what He endured for us in return for eternal life?  “…let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27: 24)