“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 (ESV)
Rejoice in suffering? This seems like an oxymoron if ever there were one! It is human nature to reject, grieve, and even despise sufferings that come our way. However, for the born-again follower of Christ, it is indeed joyful to know that we are following in His footsteps through trials, suffering, and even persecution in this world. “and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him.”
(Romans 8:17) Any amount of strife or suffering we are subjected to in life, if we are submitted to the Lord, will eventually produce endurance, character, and hope. It is with these fruits that we will be drawn closer to our Lord and Savior and His love for us that “has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us”. How are you responding when suffering comes your way?
Jessica Ford
Communications Director
Alive Ministries USA