Day 35
Hope in the Midst of Trouble
We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. [Romans 5:3b–4]
I think we all long to be hopeful, people of hope. This passage, however, tells us that hope shines brightest in suffering. I want hope, but I sure don’t want trouble!
Verses 3 and 4 lead us through the path that suffering can take in our character and emotions. Now it doesn’t have to take this path. We can choose other paths: control, anger, bitterness, cynicism. But none of these paths end in hope.
Paul says that our suffering can ultimately produce hope. I, for one, love knowing that my troubles are not in vain. I know not all suffering has an earthly explanation, but it is great to know suffering has a path, and that path ends with a growing hope!
But don’t stop there; verse 5 has to be one of the best verses in the Bible! And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love…
Once again we see the Bible does not talk about hope for hope’s sake; that would be a hope that disappoints. The Bible directs us to hope in God.
I am struck by reading the phrase, And hope does not disappoint us, because God…
What hope, what joy, what peace there is …because God…
What more do we need to know when it comes to hope?
Question to Consider
Meditate on the phrase, “And hope does not disappoint us, because God….” How can that impact my response to life’s ups and downs?
Prayer
Lord, I choose to put my hope in Your promise that suffering can produce positive effects in my life.
