GLORY IN SUFFERING

Romans 5:3-5

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

There is no vacation from human suffering and tragedy. And a lot of people try to sort this out, understand it, and explain it. C. S. Lewis called it "the problem of pain." But there is a God who, despite the worst tragedy, can bring good out of bad. We acknowledge that life can be bad. We acknowledge that bad things can happen. We acknowledge that God is sovereign, which means that He is in control. And we acknowledge that ultimately God can cause all things to work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Yet some hold the view that because they are Christians, they won't suffer. They may not state it outright, but they believe that bad things won't happen to them. However, the reality is that we will face trouble too. Jesus said, "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

We may have a hard time putting the words "trials, "problems," and "God loves me" into one sentence because they dont seem to go together. But let's take a look at God's endgame. Is it to make us happy in the temporal, or is it to prepare us for heaven? The latter is the answer. So God can allow tragedy. No tragedy is good. But God can bring good despite a tragedy. So even in our worst of times, if we can be people of character, then nothing can steal from us our most desired goal, the character of God, given us in Jesus Christ!!!

Father, thank You for this day and the mercy and grace to walk in it. Lord, let Your abundant blessings flow over us and our family today. Lord, please help us be strong in difficult times and consistent in holy character. Lord, please give us a heart of courage and compassion. Lord, give us the strength to endure. Lord, when hard times come our way, help us to look to You for perseverance and joy. Lord, make us mature and complete through these trials. Lord, use us to be the beacon of Your love to those who need it today.

Father, we love You. Amen.