Romans 5.1-5 Trials & Tribulations

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.Romans 5:1‭-‬5 NASB

One look through the headlines will tell you that the world is at war with God. It is now legal in some states to kill a baby after it is born, in the name of abortion. Courts order Christians to violate their conscience by financing abortion or putting it in their health plans.

Others are ordered to serve at functions which they fundamentally disagree with (like baking a cake for a gay wedding). Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with the decision to serve at such an event, it is clear that Christians are being singled out. The gay couple were not being denied a fundamental right such as a life saving service, and they could have gone to a more sympathetic baker, but chose to litigate.

Churches that meet in homes are being told that they can no longer congregate, citing zoning regulations. Yet football parties can take place next door without complaint.

We see real evil in the world, even to the highest authorities.

Before we came to Christ, we were part of that world; at enmity with God.

But now that we are in Christ, having come to Him by faith, we are at peace with God. Through Jesus, we stand in grace and in hope.

Now though, having shifted our allegiance from the world to God, we find ourselves on the receiving end of the world's enmity.

And how should we respond when trials come our way? By rejoicing!

Acts 5 describes the event when the apostles were jailed because of their testimony of Jesus. The apostles were flogged (beaten with a whip), and sent home. Then verse 41 says, "So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name." And went right on preaching.

If you receive hardship with joy, you will learn to persevere, to prove you character, and increase in hope.

And you can do it because God has placed His Holy Spirit in you. You can experience God's love and presence at all times because He is not far away in a distant heaven, but is right inside your inner being, pouring out His love to you.