3 Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;

4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope,

5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

— Romans 5:3-5

The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge

— Psalm 18:2

Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.

— Psalm 118:5

17 Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word.

19 I am a stranger on the earth; do not hide Your commandments from me.

22 Remove my scorn and contempt, for I have kept Your testimonies.

25 My soul cleaves to the dust; revive me according to Your word.

50 This is my comfort in affliction, that Your word has given me life.

— Psalm 119: 17, 19, 22, 25, 50

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, salvation and joy from Jesus Christ to you.

Suffering helps us God’s children mature. God loves His children too much to spare them the development of wisdom and character that is forged only through pain. Seasons of growth are most often connected with times of challenge. The storms of life reveal the fortitude of our faith. God lovingly weaves enough struggles into our lives to keep us dependent upon Him. Just as storms and drought force the roots of a tree to grow deep, times of suffering draw our roots deep into God Himself.

Troubling times teach us much about ourselves and God. Our self-sufficiency is exposed, but so is God’s faithfulness. Suffering purifies us, revealing pretense and sin. Suffering identifies where we need to grow. God incorporates rich spiritual benefits into suffering. Through trials, we learn to experience and express God’s compassion and mercy. Suffering also sensitizes us to God’s work in our lives. We recognize God’s provision and protection, even in little things. In times of trouble and testing, we cry out to God and experience the truth that He hears and answers His children. We learn to pray when we are in need and patiently wait on God to answer our prayers and meet our needs. Suffering drives us deep into God’s Word when we search for answers and comfort. Suffering deepens and solidifies our faith through experience.