Romans 5:3-5
“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.”
Is it your natural tendency to rejoice when you face problems and trials? Probably not. But look again at these verses and the path our trials take us on if we allow them. The end result is the kind of hope that does not disappoint. It’s a confident hope rooted in God’s promises which we know He doesn’t break. Promises that we are dearly loved by God, that He is always with us and that, someday, we who believe will be with Him again forever in Heaven.
Respond in Prayer
Ask God today for the ability to rejoice in problems and trials. Ask for the power of the Holy Spirit to develop endurance and strength of character in you and for the ability to stop trying in your own strength. Turn over to God all the places you’re realizing you put your hope that aren’t confident – circumstances, people, money. Ask God to allow this pandemic to make you resilient and dependent on Him like never before. For more on finding joy in trials, see what James and Peter have to say.
For Families with Kids at Home
If you’re able to, spend some time outside as a family today. Before you go your separate ways, spend some time sharing what you’re grateful for, and thank God for helping you get through another week and for the ways he’s helping your family endure right now.