“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” (Romans 5:3-5 NLT)
Think back on a trial that you have gone through--something that was beyond your capacity to get through on your own--a time when you overcame the temptation to drown in bitterness and despair and are now stronger for it.
Tribulation threshes us, separating the superficial from the meaningful. Suffering can lead to endurance--increasing our capacity for pain. Perseverance strengthens our character, which, in turn, allows us a better understanding of God’s character--which is pure love. Experiencing God’s unfailing love leads to confident expectancy in God’s goodness. Once we make it over the threshold of despair, we can enter into this expanse of hope. And then, “We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.” (Romans 5:1-2 MSG)
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