Listen

But not only that! We even take pride in our problems, because we know that trouble produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope. This hope doesn’t put us to shame, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:3-5

Think

While the world tells us to avoid suffering at all costs and to pursue happiness, Paul encourages us to rejoice in the sufferings of life. This seems to be contradictory, but there is a reason for Paul’s encouragement. Glorying or rejoicing in the sufferings is a statement that we can learn from our trials and obstacles. God does not cause our suffering. When we face obstacles, it doesn’t mean that God is punishing us. Sometimes our experiences of adversity can serve as moments of growth for us.

Let us remember that Jesus himself told us that we would have afflictions in this world, so we are not exempt from suffering. Pain is part of the human experience, but through the hope we have in God, we can receive strength to endure in the midst of afflictions.

Coralys Santos Saldaña

Question to Ponder:

In what difficult moments have I seen God’s purpose or hand at work, even though at first I did not understand it?

Pray

God, help me to live with endurance and hope in the midst of my sufferings, knowing that you have already won the battle for me. Amen.

Go

Decide to live in communion with God, listen to God’s voice, trust in God’s guidance, and respond with faith, dignity, and hope in every area of your life.