Twelve-time All-American swimmer Riley Gaines has been a true example of what it looks like to "Hold the Line". She recently became one of the first people to stand up and speak against the unfairness of transgender women competing in women’s sports because she has personally experienced it. Riley became outspoken on preserving women’s sports for biological females after tying for fifth with transgender swimmer Lia Thomas in the 200-meter NCAA championship last year. Sean gets a chance to talk with Riley and find out where her strength and boldness truly come from.
We are pretty impatient these days. If you don’t agree, just think about the last time you warmed up a meal in the microwave. Did you calmly wait during those few minutes, or did you stand there tapping your fingers and sighing in exasperation?
No wonder Scripture includes so many examples of godly patience. Time and again, the Father made promises to His children, only to have them wait years—sometimes decades—for the promise to be fulfilled. However, the result of that patience was always blessing.
Consider how long Simeon waited to see Christ—to hold the infant Jesus in his arms and prophesy over Him. For many decades he kept watch, holding firmly to the promise that he would not die before he beheld the Savior (v. 26). Imagine waiting day after day for such an amazing blessing. Some people might have found it challenging to continue believing the promise, but Simeon didn’t falter. And his reward was indeed great.
Shortcuts rarely lead to where God wants us to be. The long road, however, has been taken by countless faithful servants. So if you’re waiting on the Lord today, be encouraged because you’re in good company.
Bible in One Year: 2 Chronicles 21-23
