Joy in Hard Times

Joy in Hard Times

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope:
Romans 5:3-4 KJV

.That’s why Paul’s encouragement in Romans 5 may sound contradictory. Paul was writing this to the church in Rome experiencing suffering from ungodly rulers, and yet he encourages them to rejoice in their suffering. 

It wasn’t enough to just endure suffering—he tells them to have joy. Paul knew that it wasn’t natural to be joyful in hard times, but through the work of Jesus, Christians have peace with God and access to faith (Romans 5:1-2). Faith allows us to hold onto the hope that suffering isn’t the end of our story. 

Because we know that God works within our difficult situations, we can have patience and perseverance for God to complete His work. Perseverance refines our character. As we wait on God, we become people who look more like Jesus, and our trust in God grows stronger. This increases hope within us. 

It’s not easy to have hope when you're suffering. But as we trust in God, we are strengthened to continue to endure. When we look at suffering from God’s perspective, we begin to realize that He is working to bring glory to Himself in every situation.

God has shown us through the Holy Spirit that He loves us. He suffered and gave Himself for us so that we could have a relationship with Him, and He will continue to give us everything we need to live a life that honors Him.

So consider how God is working in your life, even through difficult seasons. Think about the ways God has poured His love into you through the Holy Spirit. Ask Him for strength to persevere, and let that perseverance develop into a strong character that hopes and trusts in God even in hard times. And when persevering gets difficult, hold onto this truth: God has given everything for you, and He will never leave your side.

REFLECTION

Consider how God is working in your life—even through difficult seasons. How have you seen Him show up?

SHARE YOUR FAITH

Today, praise God out loud for who He is. Thank Him for what He has done. And worship Him for all that He's still planning to do!

PRAYER

God, You are well-acquainted with my struggles, and they don't scare or shock You. Instead, You seem to view them as opportunities to strengthen me and show off Your glory through me.

So today, I choose to bring my struggles to You. I will rejoice even as I encounter hard times-because I know You are refining me, and giving me the strength to endure. Thank You! In Jesus' name, Amen.