Letters of Paul not only encouraged believers to hold on to faith, but also contained practical spiritual suggestions. Deriving from his own life experience, Paul suggests three of the most important things that need to be kept for a victorious Christian life: “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer” (Rom 12:12). That is why it is important to ask God to fill us with hope, for it is impossible to hold on only by mere human efforts; hence, Paul blesses, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Rom 15:13). All our prayers are answered by God, but we need patience to wait on Him, as suggested, “You need to persevere, so that after you have done God’s will, you will receive what He has promised” (Heb 10:36). May our lives be filled with hope, patience, and prayer, that we may be successful like St. Paul.

Abba, thank You for instructing us through Your Apostles. Let Your Spirit encourage us to practice their suggestions. In Jesus’ Most Wonderful Name, Amen.