Tribulations Bring Hope?
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations,
knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance,
and perseverance, proven character;
and proven character, hope;
and hope does not disappoint,
because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts
through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Romans 5:3-5
I love that tribulations and hope are joined together in this list. But tribulations, in and of themselves do not bring hope. No, hope comes when we persevere in belief in spite of the tribulation which in turn brings about proven character (character tested and tried by fire – pure and unadulterated). Then we come to the hope that does not disappoint. This hope is based on the love of God. He loves us, Dear Ones. We don’t have to prove our worth, perform to a certain standard, be someone else, hide our shame, please others, or look good. God loves us just because we are His. As His beloved children, we have great hope that the tribulations will not be forever, that they will not separate us from the love of God, that God will be with us through them, and that He will never leave us. We hope that something good will come out of the trial (Romans 8:38). And it will if we persevere and cling to God’s love and His promises.
In a tribulation and not feelin’ it? Reach out to God. Let Him put His arms around you. Know His love through Bible study, prayer, and sharing with other Christians. Let God’s love be poured out within your heart. You do this and no tribulation will steal or hope or destroy your joy.