Devotions: Rejoice In Tribulation

And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;

Romans 5:3-4 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

The verses just before this talk about the wonderful joy we have in the salvation of Jesus Christ! We who were once His enemies have been made His children and heirs by adoption through the blood of Christ! We have that to lift us up when we are down because nothing can change our status in Christ. He has made us righteous before God. However, that is not the only thing we have to rejoice over. We can also rejoice when we suffer because of the fruit that it grows in us. We develop patience and endurance when we suffer, if we surrender our suffering and circumstances to God willing to learn from and trust Him in the midst of it. Like a tree that is blown about by the wind, causing its roots to grow deeper and stronger. That patient endurance will develop our character so that we become more like Christ. Like gold which is refined in the fire, the unsightly worthless parts are strained out and removed so that what is left is more pure. That proven character produces hope. Not an “I hope I win the lottery” kind of hope, but a deep assurance in the character and promises of God, a trust and faith that is unshakeable because we have seen God move and provide and work out good even in the worst of circumstances. These things can only be grown in us through suffering. It is only by submitting to God, willingly learning what He has to teach, and a heart willing to suffer for God’s sake that we can grow and mature. If we don’t go through trials, we will not see God’s power, we will not depend on His strength, we will not feel His love. If we are unwilling to submit to God in our trials, if we have a bad attitude and feel sorry for ourselves, we will not learn or grow. We will remain victims devoid of a victory. How do you respond to suffering? Are you willing to learn and grow through suffering? Do you trust God to carry you through so that you learn to trust more deeply in Him?

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