May 2 | Romans 5:3-6
“Not only this, but we also rejoice in afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance and endurance character, and character hope. But hope does not dishonor, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who was given to us. For Christ, while we were still weak died at the proper time for the ungodly.” (Romans 5:3–6)
The world tells us to find the shortcuts in life, to get ahead of everyone else. But in God’s kingdom, you grow through a completely different approach. It all starts with a radically ridiculous beginning to us.
Most people would laugh and rejoicing in suffering. But God has reasons for allowing suffering to happen in your life. It’s not pleasant as you go through it, but it has a way of leading you to hope.
Your suffering leads to endurance, standing up under the pressure of your suffering. But God gives you strength. Endure your suffering by turning to God and relying on him. God uses your suffering to build his character in you.
This is how you become like Jesus. Your character allows you to confidently face more suffering. And that suffering brings you to a place of hope in the return of Jesus to take you home.
Action Step: When you face trials and suffering, you can rejoice despite the pain. It’s the beginning of God’s work in you to make you more like Jesus and hope for his return. It’s not pleasant, but God can use it for his glory in you.
Jesus, I am in a hard place, suffering from the situations in my life. But I know I can lean on you and receive your strength to carry me through it. Give me your endurance to stand up under the pressures of this life. And even more so, come quickly, Lord!