Perseverance, Character, Hope
Romans 5:3-4
We read in Romans 5:3–4, “And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;” (NASB 2020)
None of us enjoy the trials and tribulations we face here in the valley of the shadow of death. Even though we are the children of God and the ambassadors of Christ here in the domain of darkness, we are not exempt from the effects of its fallen state. We all suffer hardship.
What this passage is telling us is that adversity makes us stronger. As we persevere through hard times, we learn the value of staying the course. We come to see that hard times don't last forever, that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
After we have gone through a few difficult periods, we find ourselves having compassion for others who are experiencing similar hardships. We can empathize with them and give them hope that goes beyond mere platitudes. We find that we are softer, more understanding, more forgiving. We find ourselves being gentler, more kind, more patient with people.
These character traits are the character traits of our Father, from whom we have inherited them. Having endured hardship and trials, we mature and become more "spiritually adult" in the way we interact with others. In so doing, our godly character is proven.
It's proven to us. As we observe growth and change in ourselves that was not initiated by us, we realize that the change Father has made in us by His Spirit is real and genuine.
It's proven to others. As they encounter the Love and Life of Christ Jesus being displayed through us, they notice the difference from the empty cliches and platitudes those in the world provide.
Sometimes, their realization of what they see results in questions. They question the reason for the hope that is within us, they question how we could endure such painful situations with joy in our hearts (see 1 Peter 3:5).
All this works together to increase our faith. To make us more certain of the hope we have in Christ.
