Romans 5:3-5 promises something wonderful at the end of our hardships and suffering: HOPE. The verses read “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 5:3-5)
Why does this hope that we gain never disappoint? Because it’s a hope founded on the person of God: “And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out HIS LOVE into our hearts by the HOLY SPIRIT, whom he has given us.” In short, God LOVES us and God is WITH us.
To experience hope in the midst of trials, pray to understand God’s presence and God’s love. One way to do so is to meditate on people’s stories in the Bible, such as:
Job (Job 42:1-6): I have hope because God knows everything and is in control of everything.
Abraham (Genesis 22): I have hope because God may cause the greatest pain I could imagine to bring about the greatest blessing I could never imagine.
Hebrews (Exodus 14): I have hope because God Himself will stand between me and evil.
Elijah (I Kings 19:1-8): I have hope because God is tender with my weakness and human frailty.
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3): I have hope because God is with us and can prevent the worst from happening.
Stephen (Acts 7:54-60): I have hope because God is with me while the worst is happening.
Let’s remember that GOD IS WITH US and that GOD LOVES US. He will get us through any trial we face in this life.