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.
Romans 5:3-5 NIV
All those who enjoy suffering raise your hands. Although I can't see you, I'm pretty positive none of you did. Suffering is a disruption to the normal; it's messy. Although we don't like those times, we often learn from them, and In our adversity, we adopt new coping skills.
The Apostle Paul was no stranger to adversity, whipped, beaten, stoned, and shipwrecked (2 Corinthians 11:24-31). In addition, he was plagued with an unstated physical ailment, his thorn in the flesh. But, instead of giving up, he said (my paraphrasing), in our suffering, we learn to hang in there; it helps make us who we are to become; in the process, we find hope. The hope found is not the human hope of wishes and uncertainty but the promise of God. In his love, God gives us the Holy Spirit. That thing within us amid our suffering reminds us that God is with us. So, while we may find it challenging to glory in our troubles, we are never alone.
God, we thank you for your love and the gift of the Holy Spirit. We even give thanks for our sufferings because it reminds us of the promise found in you through them. While we don't understand the why, we take comfort in knowing we are never alone. You are with us and care for us. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
