Romans 5:1-5

“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. 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.”

These scripture verses have so much rich depth to them in understanding the Christian life. We have been justified by our faith in Jesus and made right within God’s sight, but it’s a continual journey toward Christ-likeness, constantly dying to our flesh, our own wants and desires, and instead focusing on what God wants for us no matter how big, or small, the trial or temptation.

Somedays this can be a real struggle, can’t it? Yesterday was one of those days for me. I woke up with a throbbing headache and just didn’t feel good. I could have wallowed in my pain all day, made excuses to God about why I couldn’t launch my blog, but instead I got up and faced the day with His help. God has had me rooted in the books of Isaiah, Romans, and Hebrews a lot lately. These verses came to mind and I read them a few times in the stillness of the early morning.

Two things stand out to me each time I read these words from the Apostle Paul…

• 1. Faith comes before joy and peace.
• 2. We should rejoice in our sufferings. Not because we like the pain, but as a reminder that through life’s trials and difficulties, God is producing in us His character, strength, and perseverance.

That’s why Paul tells us to run the race that is set before us with endurance in Hebrews 12. Whoever tells you the Christian life is easy is so mistaken. The Christian life is hard, but one that is worth the eternal glory that awaits us when we see Jesus face to face. Until that day, we look to God and Jesus for guidance through His Word no matter what the day may bring.

If we are honest with ourselves, we learn the most through our difficulties. I know I sure have. It is in those times that God is the potter, we are the clay, and He is shaping us into who he created us to be. It’s easy to lose sight and focus on Him amidst the sufferings of this life, but we are never alone. God is there with us through all things, and causes all things to work together for the good of those that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

No matter what you are facing, no matter how big or small, God wants to walk with you through it and help you become victorious, like only He can do. Ask Him, pray to Him for help, and have faith and trust that He will lead you to joy and peace, and shine His light even in the storm.

God love you and so do I,

Leslie

photo courtesy of Positive Outlooks.com