The big 3 instructions to the Christian Church

I think that we can all agree that this world we live in is full of: strife, turmoil, and conflict. This being more evident than ever given the recent events. The unfairness in the world brings about a sense of justice. In other words, a desire to do something about the troubles of the world. We can’t get away from this, it’s a part of our human nature. No matter: what walk of life we come from, our political leanings, or the church we attend; we can all come together as believers to make a difference in this world. How we can do this is outlined through three instructions the apostle Paul made to the Roman church in Romans 12:12.

Paul states, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (NIV). The first of the three big instructions is to “Be joyful in hope.” Hope here is translated into something that is certain and something that we as believers can look forward to. Paul here is saying be joyful in our salvation that we have through Jesus, and to look forward to our permanent home in glory with God our Father. The second of the three instructions says “Be patient in affliction.” Our sin nature provokes us not to be patient. Believers tend to justify impatience by stating they are taking matters into their own hands due to the bad things happening around them. When we act on our impatience in this manner, we tend to make things worse and not better. When we put our trust in God we can be patient in times of trials and tribulation, and come out of it with a sense of peace. Lastly, Paul says, “Be faithful in prayer.” We need prayerful churches in our communities. I urge you as a fellow church member and leader to faithfully pray for: our country, our community, our leaders, and individuals you know of who are struggling.

I know it’s tough to feel like there is nothing you can do. However, the exact opposite is true. We can impact the world in a big way by following through with the big three. You want to make a difference? You want to feel peace in your life despite the pain and sufferings? Look to our heavenly Father and act on Paul’s instructions to us.

This column was written on behalf of the Moses Lake Christian Ministerial Association.