Romans 5
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5 NIV
Although no one would choose to go through periods of suffering, the fact is, that everyone experiences hardship and difficult times in life. It is precisely these times when we are struggling, that God shows us how He fulfills the promise made in Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” How does God take terrible trials and difficult circumstances and use them to produce something good in our lives?
1. He teaches us to hold fast to our faith in Him even when it is hard. The Bible has a lot to say about perseverance. Paul tells us that you will be considered holy and blameless in God’s eyes “if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (Colossians 1:23). James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” The more we persevere as we continue to live the Christian life, the more God can bless us, and He gives us everything we need to continue on our journey of faith.
2. A person’s character is a combination of his/her disposition, thoughts, intentions, desires, morals, and actions. Character is developed and influenced by experiences and choices that we make, so sometimes we may be tested by trials in life in order to strengthen our character: “I know, my God, that You test the heart and are pleased with integrity” (1 Chronicles 29:17). As we persevere and allow God to shape our character, it will become more and more apparent that we are truly followers of Christ in all we say and do. We can also contribute to the development of our Godly character by controlling our thoughts: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). In addition, we need to take action to keep ourselves away from situations that we know may lead us down the wrong path. Surrounding ourselves with encouraging, loving, life-giving people, will also play a big part in making sure our character develops in a way that is pleasing to God. “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character’” (1 Corinthians 15:33).
3. The promise that results from persevering through trials and continuing to build our Godly character is hope. Biblical hope is a solid foundation upon which we can base our lives, where we have steadfast faith that God always keeps His promises. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-4). Having hope produces joy and peace in believers through the Holy Spirit, which can bring comfort and strength no matter what life brings your way. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13). Amen!