And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)

Tightening The Strings

As the musician tightens the strain on his violin strings, yet is careful not to snap them asunder, but only to secure a sweeter melody and better accord, so God, through affliction, makes his own children more perfect instruments for His service. God created pain to show man that he is alive. When Adam and Eve were expelled from the garden, suffering and trials became a part of everyday life. Affliction can either destroy the spirit of man or make him a better person. No one enjoys suffering, but there is a way to view the trials of life with a positive outlook.

The early Christians suffered from persecution and trials, and yet the Lord told them to count it all joy when the trials come. How is it possible to look at life with troubles and have a spirit of hope? Without God, it is impossible. With God, the spirit sees the real nature of life with a view of eternity. The problem with looking at trials the wrong way is to believe life here and now is all there is. Having the hope that life is short and in death greater blessings await changes the view of life.

At the beginning of the epistle of James, he tells those scattered abroad to know that the testing of their faith would produce patience. They were suffering under the hand of persecution. God wants them to know He hears their prayers and understands their pain, but their suffering will lead to greater things. The testing of their faith would produce a stronger faith if they trusted in the Lord. Prayer was central to the character of enduring trials. Seeking wisdom from God helps to understand the trials of life.

The apostle Paul told the saints in Rome to glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. It is difficult to see hope in the midst of tribulations, but allowing the process to be filled with the love of God gives the heart of man the strength to produce character, leading to hope. This kind of hope is everlasting. God demonstrated His love for man when He allowed His Son to suffer. Jesus had the power to call down 72,000 (twelve legions) angels to defend Him, but he suffered to show the path of hope. God never forsook Jesus in His suffering, and He will not forsake us in our suffering.

There is much suffering in the world, and that will not change. Living through those trials can only be done with the hope in Christ. Belief in God does not take away pain, but it helps to understand its purpose. The reality is that suffering is but for a short time and then eternity. Find peace in God. He offers hope. There are answers to suffering.