And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. Romans 5:3-5
We can have peace with God because we are justified by our faith. The grace of God at work in and through the hardship is what cultivates patience, not the tribulation itself.
Being in Christ does not stop us from trials and tribulations, but rather can produce godly characteristics (Galatians 5:22-23) which we can draw others unto Him. It is also an opportunity to draw closer to Christ and cultivate a deeper trust and faith in God.
Suffering develops character, so we more consistently decide to do what pleases God. This in turn produces hope, which nourishes a growing confidence that we will be with God for eternity. Because God loves us, He will always keep His promises toward us.
Because He lives,
Melissa Smith
Joshua 1:9 / Ecclesiastes 3:22-23
