“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” – Romans 5:3–5
Our attitude is not determined by our circumstances. Some people are joyful during times of great trial. Others are discontent even in times of plenty. Our attitude is determined by our view of those circumstances. If we view hard times as something unfair or surprising, we will be likely to allow them to drag us down. On the other hand, if we view hard times as part of God’s purpose for our lives, we will be likely to keep our joy.
Nothing ever happens that takes God by surprise. Many times we are blindsided by things we didn’t see coming, but He never is. And while there are times when His plan involves us going through great hardship and trial, there is never a time when we get there accidentally. Our hardships are an opportunity for our faith to grow and God’s power to be displayed. Writing to people who were literally being killed for their faith, Peter said, “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy” (1 Peter 4:13).
In Pilgrim’s Progress, when Christian and Hopeful are trapped in Doubting Castle by the Giant Despair, they spend days in a basement prison. Finally, Christian remembers something important. “‘What a fool,’ quoth he, ‘am I, thus to lie in a stinking dungeon, when I may as well walk at liberty! I have a key in my bosom called Promise; that will, I am persuaded, open any lock in Doubting Castle.’“ The key works, and the two walk free rejoicing to continue on to the Celestial City. Because of our faith in God’s purpose for our lives and our belief in His promises, we can be joyful in the most difficult circumstances. (Daily in the Word)
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346
