“TRIBULATION AND ITS CHAIN OF RESULTS”

Romans 5:3, 4

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 not only this” – not only do Christians have peace with God and a standing in grace – but tribulation comes with all of this. What is to be our outlook and attitude in the time of trials in our lives? Paul says we exult in our tribulations. (Exult – kauchaomai – denotes jubilation and rejoicing.)

How can we rejoice in tribulation? We can rejoice because we know tribulation is productive. Tribulation brings about perseverance. All of this is looking forward to our glorious hope of being transformed into His image (Romans 8:28, 29).

However, perseverance has a work as well. Perseverance works proven character. Perseverance is patience to endure and it produces godly character that is proven to be true character – character that befits God’s children.

In like manner, proven character is at work. Proven character produces hope and we have come full circle. It all comes back to hope – the Hope of Glory (v. 2). So tribulation leads us ultimately to hope.

Do you ask why you are suffering trials? God is building patience that builds godly character. Godly character assures us of hope. Hope never disappoints us because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us.

What a legacy! The whole range of the Christian life is laid out before us. The thing that strikes me in this last statement is that the Holy Spirit has been freely given to God’s people. When He came in, He brought in the full measure of the love of God.

So brothers and sisters in Christ, you have got it all! Peace with God. A standing in grace. The divine development of Christian character that is ultimately realized in hope. So let’s rejoice in what God has done and is doing in our lives. God bless.

Love to you all.