Planking has become a popular subject of photos on social media. It’s actually the art of “lying down.” But true planking – holding your body straight while resting on your toes and forearms – is a genuine test of strength. It isn’t easy, but it earned 16-year-old Gabi Ury a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. Gabi planked one hour, twenty minutes and five seconds.

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

Romans 12:12

She had a goal of breaking a world record and raising money for the Denver Children’s Hospital where she received treatment for a disease called VATER syndrome (the presence of at least three specific birth defects). She achieved both. When asked how she got through the pain and fatigue, Gabi said being surrounded by positivity and fun helped. She also believed in herself. She had hope.

Today’s verse offers a similar life lesson. Have hope. Hang on and pray. When you want to give up, surround yourself with the positivity of other Christ followers. Don’t “lie down.” Instead, “Encourage one another and build one another up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) As you pray continually, show patience as you wait for the Lord. Then pray for your nation’s leaders to have the same hope in Christ you do.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:11-18