But we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3-5
Stuff happens. Life happens. We all go through tough times. Some of those trials are God sent, some aren’t. But regardless of the hard time you are going through today, be assured that there is a purpose in it.
Paul was a trial expert. If anyone had reason to complain for hardships and suffering, it would be him (and maybe Job). But Paul embraced suffering as a part of God’s calling. He didn’t run from it, but made the most of it. In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul talks about his “thorn in the flesh”. What it was specifically is not known, but what IS known is that it was some kind of enduring hardship in his life. We know that He prayed for God to remove it. And what was God’s response to his request?
“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
It clicked. God had a purpose in Paul’s hardship. Paul then goes on to say in verse 10, “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
I’m not saying that the trial in your life today is God-given…it may or may not be. But what I can tell you without a doubt is that whatever situation you are in today, GOD HAS A PURPOSE FOR IT.
Maybe it’s to minister to other people who are going through it. (Romans 15:13)
Maybe it’s to grow you and build your character. (Romans 5:35)
Maybe it’s to train you to endure. (James 1:2-4)
Choose to look beyond what’s right in front of you and ask God to show you what HE wants you to see in your situation. Open your heart, your ears, your eyes, and your mind to receive the opportunity for God to use your hardship for His glory. Trust the One who is able to cause ALL things to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)
