Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us

Romans 5:3-5

No one prefers suffering to a distress-free life. Who wants to be in Job’s shoes? Unfortunately, there is no trouble-free life here on earth. Sin has woven suffering into the fabric of life for mankind. More than that, suffering is a constant factor in our redemption equation. For, there could be no resurrection without the cross. That’s why no child of God can expect a suffering-free life in Christ.

Despite the constancy of suffering in the believer’s life, it is great joy to know that we can maintain a living hope in Christ that our final redemption is guaranteed (1 Pt. 1:3; Col. 1:27). That is proof that God’s goal in our suffering is to perfect us in Christ. The apostle Paul, therefore, encourages us to rejoice in our sufferings, since we know that suffering develops our ability to endure (Rm. 5:3). And, doesn’t endurance sharpen our character, which in turn strengthens our hope of glory in Christ Jesus? (4).

Is it not great news to know that this hope cannot disappoint us? God dearly loves us. He has filled our hearts with His love through His indwelling Holy Spirit (5). He is God’s seal upon us, guaranteeing our final redemption (2 Cor.1:22; Eph. 4:30). Now, that is cause for joy, my friend, even in the throes of affliction (Acts 16:25).

Remember that Job didn’t die in his suffering. David survived the jealous and murderous pursuit of King Saul, and eventually lived to reign as king over Israel. God kept the prophet Elijah from the harshness of the drought and the threat of Jezebel. Never forget that He is the same God yesterday, today and forever (Heb. 13:8). Glory to His exalted name!

And even if He wills the ultimate for you in your suffering like Stephen, heaven will open to receive you into His glorious presence (Acts 7:59-60). Is there any better place to be?

I pray that in your anxious moments, you can reflect on God’s promises concerning His perfecting work in us through suffering, so that you may be encouraged, and allow dismay to give way to hope.