Romans 5:3(NLT)
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.
Trials are a part of life that no one can escape because nobody is protected or exempted from its influence. Trials or temptations are tests that qualify us for the next level. As a student writes a test or an examination for promotion to the next class, likewise temptations or trials serve as the examinations that qualify us for the next level in life. God will not allow us to experience any temptation beyond our strength. He is faithful and will give us the strength to overcome because we cannot do it alone. Trials or temptations are processes we go through, learning to trust Christ in all things for our victory. When God allows trials or disappointments, He is helping us or turning us from ants to lions. James 1:12 says, “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” Whether we believe it, trials, persecutions, or temptations are part of life. However, there is a blessing attached to those who overcome them. God promised a crown of life to all who endure to the end. It takes a genuine love of God to be able to overcome temptation.
It is a mystery that tribulations produce patience. For the worm Jacob to become a sharp threshing instrument, God allowed him to pass through Temporary Difficulty. In the end, he became Israel. God will let us go through the wilderness to learn patience and build stamina, a vital requirement for spiritual growth. Sometimes life’s disappointments are much more severe. The work we hoped for doesn’t materialize; friends we counted on let us down; the romantic relationship we longed for fails to work out. But into these heartbreaks, God’s Word speaks a refreshing truth about our hope in Him. James 1:2 says, “Dear brothers and sisters when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” Winston Churchill once said, “We shall draw from the heart of suffering, itself the means of inspiration and survival.” Hebrews 12:11 says, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward, there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” While it may be unpleasant or even embarrassing at that moment, discipline or temptation produces growth and maturity in our character. We may not understand the trial, persecution, or punishment, but afterward, it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to us trained by it.
Beloved, no matter the trouble, no matter the tribulation that you face, rejoice. Whatever challenge you may be facing today is tailor-made for you; it’s for your promotion and glory. Be joyful, for out of the mess comes your message; out of the misery comes your ministry; inside the insult, you have a result. In your trial, your shame shall give way to fame, and your pain shall be replaced with your gain because your story is changing. You will pass a series of tests to make it in this life. So instead of blaming God, remember what Job did when advised to curse God for his trials. He Remained Faithful and Never Gave Up. Whatever you’re facing, going through, or about to go through, know this, IT WON’T LAST! There is an end to everything in life. Hold on to the Word. Like Abraham, against hope, believe in hope, knowing that no matter what happens, you’ll win. The night may be dark and long, but guaranteed joy comes in the morning. So, keep fighting for God, who has promised you a crown of life. Just have faith and trust in God in the very midst of trials and tribulations. Resist the temptation to give up and quit when the going gets rough, for it is in those hard, trying times that the Lord builds in you the patience, endurance, and character that will eventually produce the habit of joyful and confident hope. Rejoice in all of life’s experiences, good and bad, for when you do, you grow in faith, character, and hope.
O Lord, help me embrace my present sufferings as future glory in Jesus’ Name.