Tuesday, 23 April 2013
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; Romans 5:3
This is a similar thought to what James says in his letter –
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” James 1:2, 3
Not only do we rejoice in hope of the glory of God (v.2), but we further glory in tribulations. The word used here is thlipsis. It carries the idea of pressure, such as being hemmed in a small tight spot. When we face trials which would otherwise cause us to lose control, we can instead glory in them. As the world around us falls apart due to the external crises which arise, we understand that God is in control and that these types of tribulation only serve us in a positive way; they produce perseverance.
If we feel that the world is out of control, then all sense of hope is lost. When this happens, we will look to the government or some other entity to secure us and keep us safe. However, the Christian should understand that the trials and woes of the world around us are a part of God’s plan. Whether He causes them directly or merely allows them, all things are within His providence and therefore we are to look to Him as the Source of our strength.
The difference is wider than the seas. Looking to anything less than God for help in tribulation will not produce patience. Instead, it will only produce greater fear and a loss of freedom. But when we look to God during these trials, we appreciate that He is in complete control and our resolve will only be strengthened.
Life application: In the recent past, more bombers did their evil work. We need to look to the root cause of this and understand that it did not occur apart from God’s sovereign knowledge. The perpetrators are no less guilty, but we need to be strengthened in the perseverance of our faith – that God alone can bring peace to this troubled land.
Heavenly Father, as surely as the sunrise tells us a new day is coming, so does the beginning of a new prayer tell us that comfort is ahead. When we open our hearts to You, it is sure that You are attentive to our prayers. And because of Jesus, we have complete and full access to Your glorious throne. Where is fear when we stand in Your presence? Thank You for Jesus. Amen.