Christians, Do You Glory in Your Tribulations? You Should
Thinking about Romans 5:3-4.
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3-4)
Paul has been explaining the blessings that the justified receive.
So far in Romans 5, we have seen the blessings of:
Having peace with God.
Standing in the grace of God.
Rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
But Paul’s not done yet. In fact, the blessings of the justified are about to take an unexpected turn.
Glory in Tribulations.
To “glory” means “to boast” or “rejoice” in our tribulations or our “oppression or trouble.” The justified should “rejoice” in their troubles and tribulations.
Now, how’s that for a change in direction?
No doubt, we were all on board when Paul was talking about peace, grace, and the glory of God. But now - we are supposed to rejoice in our tribulations and troubles?
How can we glory in tribulations? Let’s allow the text to explain what Paul is saying here.
Tribulation produces perseverance.
Going through tribulation produces perseverance or steadfastness in the life of the Christian.
Our tribulations in this world bring about perseverance, which is at the core of New Testament piety. This is not because of self-imposed burdens, as the Greeks believed, or because of the disfavor of the gods. Rather, it is endurance in the face of sufferings and persecution caused by others. For Paul, it was one of the greatest Christian virtues (2:7; 8:25; 15:4-5; 2 Corinthians 1:6; 6:4; 12:12; Colossians 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Thessalonians 1:4; 3:5). The Christian endures not because of some inner personal power, but because of Christ. - Pollard, Truth for Today Commentary, 169
Perseverance produces character.
Perseverance produces character or “proven character” in the life of the Christian. It’s the idea of being “certified” or “passing a test.”
When affliction is met with fortitude, out of the battle a man emerges stronger, and purer, and better and nearer to God. - Reese, Romans, 185
Character produces hope.
The Christian who has faced trials and endured - coming out on the other side having passed the test and having a “proven character” - hope is produced.
Once he has been justified, if he patiently and triumphantly endures the tribulations God appoints, and emerges from them approved, he may well indulge in the hope and find final acceptance. His faithfulness now virtually guarantees the end. - Reese, Romans, 185
Paul reminds Christians that one of the blessings of being justified by faith is being able to rejoice in their tribulations.
Why? Because of what it produces.
Tribulation produces perseverance.
Perseverance produces proven character.
Proven character produces hope.
So the next time you go through a difficult time in life, remember what is being produced in you.
Remember the hope you have in Jesus Christ.
Beautifully put. Hoping to build my character everyday, thank you Mr Steward.