Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. —Romans 5:3-5
Have you ever experienced true darkness? Not emotional darkness, but absolute lack of light? When you compare the inside of a cave, for example, to a starless night, you see the how light “regular darkness” truly is. The same is true for our spiritual lives. Unless we experience sadness, pain and disappointment, we will never appreciate what Heaven has in store for us. When God gives us tribulations, He isn’t trying to hurt us. He is preparing us for the future. Each time we come through a trial, we are stronger emotionally, and we are stronger through our faith. When we know from experience that God will deliver us from our problems, it’s easier to face the bigger issues with an even greater sense of confidence in His promises. It’s almost impossible to be thankful for pain and suffering, illness and death. Truly, it goes against the nature of our flesh and the workings of the world. But when you are a Christian, every trial can be an exercise in your commitment to your faith. Each new test only shows that the Lord has incredible plans for you. Remember, to launch an arrow forward, you must first pull it back. Today, rejoice in the tribulations that our Father has given you. He is testing you because you are worthy, and because He must give you the strength and experience to fight your future battles. Pain is uncomfortable, but it is only temporary. Our encounters and resilience through God is forever.
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