Our scripture this morning is Romans 5:1-5.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 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.
Paul tells us that when we go through a time of suffering, God can use the experience to deepen our faith and our relationship with Him. God doesn’t send hurting into our lives but He is with us through it, showing us that earthly emotional or physical pain can be endured, not by our own strength but His.
Jesus came to be our example, sharing God’s love with us and showing us that through a life in God’s grace, we can endure the world’s opposition to His message. Make no mistake, there will be resistance from the evil forces we face. However, Jesus said “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” (Matthew 5:11).
When we hurt, God hurts along with us. He is the source of all good things and wants only the very best for His children. Paul writes “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit” and through this we can endure whatever threat the world has for us.
Loving Lord, we are weak but You are strong. Help us to be ready to face worldly issues in faith, relying on Your love and mercy in all things. Amen.