Romans 5:1-4
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Several years ago I began to experience pain on my side that was so excruciating I could hardly bear it. It turned out to be shingles, but I did not have the external sores that are usually associated with shingles. Instead, it attacked the nerve in my left leg and, within a week, I could not move my leg. I was forced to use crutches for over a month.
There is not a day that passes without us being exposed to those who are suffering. At times we might even be the ones who feel the agonizing grip of pain. Since pain is so much a part of our human experience, we need to seek God’s answer for how to endure suffering.
It is strange that Paul writes that we are to glory in our sufferings. Remember that Paul himself had a thorn in the flesh that he prayed for God to remove. Three times he prayed, and three times God refused and reminded Paul that His grace was sufficient.
Paul learned to glory in his suffering. The reason was that through suffering he could allow God to produce perseverance, which prompted character, and finally hope. This type of hope is a confident expectation that God is in control. It is my desire to live in such a way that my suffering will lead me closer to my Lord!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil