Advent Devotional – Week 3, Day 2: Joy in Expectation

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

Paul connects joy directly to hope. Our joy is not a temporary feeling based on current comfort, but a deep-seated gladness rooted in our confident expectation of God’s faithfulness. When we face trials (tribulation), this "joy in hope" becomes the emotional fuel that enables us to be patient and to pray without ceasing.

Advent is a season of waiting—waiting for Christmas Day, and ultimately waiting for Christ’s return. This waiting is not passive; it is an active, joyful anticipation. Even if your current circumstances are difficult, you have a glorious future assured by God’s promises. Today, let that future hope infuse your present with joy.

God of all hope, thank You for the certain future I have in You.
Help me to actively rejoice in the promises of Your Word, even when I am waiting.
Grant me patience in difficulty and constancy in prayer, sustained by Your joy.
Amen.

Joy is not a fragile decoration; it is the strength you use while you wait.
(Part of “Rediscovering the Wonder: An Advent Devotional” – Week 3: Joy.)