In Romans 5:3-5 (http://bib.ly/Ro5.3-5), Paul writes that suffering produces perseverance, and perseverance produces character. Why is that so? Because when you persevere with a godly focus and attitude over a long period of time, you develop:
* Steadfastness. You build a solid core within you that cannot be shaken.
* Trust. When everything else is stripped away, you learn to lean on God.
* Compassion. When you suffer, you learn to identify with others who are suffering.
* Wisdom. You learn from your experiences as you persevere in them.