Rejoice In Suffering

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:3-4

Rejoice in suffering...sounds good in theory but it is oh so hard to do in practice. However, I have recently been inspired by two different families who have held strong to their faith in spite of their sufferings. These families - like many others - have chosen to praise God's name in the midst of a storm.

The faith of these individuals demonstrates their unfailing love for God. 1 John 4:18 reads, "There is no fear in love." They are able to trust the Lord because they know, remember and believe “that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). They know that because of their faith, they will be “more than conquerors through God who loves us” (Romans 8:37). Loving and trusting the Lord in times of plenty is easy...well, sort-of. But praising Him when life gets tough?

A few days ago, I received a text from my mom. She was sharing with me something she had read on a church marquee: "One moment in God's kingdom will pay for it all." Faithful followers of Christ are able to see past their "light and momentary troubles" because they know something greater awaits them through their faith in Christ. "It is by faith you stand firm" (2 Corinthians 1:24).

1 Thessalonians 5:11 reads, “Encourage one another and build each other up…” We are “mutually encouraged by each other's faith” (Romans 1:12). Hebrews Chapter 11 is full of examples of faithful followers from the past. But I have, and want to express my sincerest appreciation for those who are standing firm in their faith now because it encourages all of us in the hope that we as believers have for our future.