“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:11-12)
By Brian Dahl
Have you experienced work situations that are so challenging they give birth to significant stress and fear? As a small business owner, sometimes I feel like I’m riding an emotional roller coaster. One day there is a thrill of hope based on some “good” news. But the next day an unforeseen piece of “bad” news quickly ushers in a wave of fear.
When I choose to ride that roller coaster, it’s a clear signal that my hope is misplaced. Work trials can shift my focus into self-preservation mode if my hope is rooted in circumstances.
But Romans 12 calls us to live and work with an altogether different perspective: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” What an encouraging truth and calling to consider! But how do we put it into practice?
Note that this passage does not direct us to try harder to fix our problems. I know from experience that more hours, more planning, and more striving isn’t what God is calling us to.
I am learning this lesson again as my business partners and I are navigating an extended and pronounced downturn. This time, the loss in revenue has led to laying off long-term staff members—close friends—that we love and have labored alongside for years. Truly gut-wrenching decisions.
But in the very midst of these trials, God offers amazing promises for us. Hope. Peace. Love. As we’ve prayed together, sought God’s will, and endeavored to serve the Lord no matter the circumstance, he has blessed us with a surprising sense of peace that can only come from the Holy Spirit.
Joy rooted in hope. Patience to trust his sovereignty over our future. And peace in the knowledge that he hears our prayers and will only answer with good.
Pray
Holy Spirit, show us when we fear our circumstances and turn inward, instead of surrendering our fears to you.
Reflect
When trials come, would others say that I am joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer?
Discuss
Share experiences and ideas to help each other mature in response to situations that trigger fear and anxiety. Commit to praying and supporting one another, so we can shine the light of Christ—especially in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Brian Dahl is a partner at DKY, a brand marketing agency in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is also a WorkLight Board member, and the DKY team supports WorkLight marketing communications needs.