Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Romans 5:3-5 . . . we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
GLORY IN TRIBULATIONS
When was the last time that you were glad that you had a bad day? Do you like it when things don't go smoothly? Don't you get discouraged when you face tribulations? If so, these words of the apostle Paul may surprise you at first. But Paul reminds us of the God-intended results of those tribulations that come to us on a daily basis. ". . . tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope."
There are many great examples in the Bible of believers receiving comfort in tribulation. Think of Joseph, David or even Peter. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. In Egypt he was thrown into prison because of false charges made by the wife of his boss. Yet the Lord was with him all the way and brought Joseph out of adversity to become the second most powerful man in the country. Later Joseph told his brothers, ". . . you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive" (Genesis 50:20). These events served to strengthen his faith and gave him a confidence that he had a Savior from all his sins.
God works through our tribulations for good. No matter how bad we may think things are, God is right there watching over us, and will make good come out of it. Ultimately trials and tribulations lead us back to His Word. That strengthens our faith. In faith we persevere, we make it through the hard times. That gives us character.
In the end we are brought back to that hope or confidence that does not disappoint. In times of tribulation the Christian finds the gospel all the more bright and comforting. And rough days lead us to appreciate all the more the glorious life ahead for us in heaven!
In every condition--in sickness, in health,
In poverty's vale, or abounding in wealth,
At home and abroad, on the land, on the sea--
The Lord, the Almighty, they strength e'er shall be.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 427:2)
