“3 And not only that, but we also boast in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, 4 endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope. 5 This hope will not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Paul just finished telling us in verses 1-2 (see our last devotional) that because of Jesus, we have cause for boasting in the hope of the Gospel. God has given us two signs that are cause for hope:
- Afflictions – In our afflictions our character is tested and strengthened. Not only this, but when we suffer on behalf of Christ and the gospel, we are reminded that our hope is not in this world, but in God and His kingdom, and through that God is glorified.
“Remember the word I spoke to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.” — John 15:20
“‘You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you.’” — Matthew 5:11-12
“Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” — James 1:2-4
“This is according to his eternal purpose accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him we have boldness and confident access through faith in him. So, then, I ask you not to be discouraged over my afflictions on your behalf, for they are your glory.” — Ephesians 3:11-13
“Blessed is the one who endures trials, because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12
- The Holy Spirit – We have hope because God, in His great love, has given us the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not only a sign to us that God will keep His promises of salvation and restoration, the Spirit also actively helps us in this endeavor, softening the hardened hearts of sinners, holding accountable the believer, and giving hope to the suffering. His hope will not disappoint us. (v. 5)
“He poured out his Spirit on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior so that, having been justified by his grace, we may become heirs with the hope of eternal life.” — Titus 3:6-7
“And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba, Father!’ So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then God has made you an heir.” — Galatians 4:6-7
Now that we have God’s Spirit dwelling within us, we have unparalleled access to God’s throne, both through Jesus who intercedes for us, and through the Holy Spirit who cries out to God on our behalf. We are no longer slaves to sin, but are now made sons and daughters of God. We are heirs! Heirs of God’s glory and of His eternal kingdom. It is this truth for Christians that gives us great cause for hope and joy!
Amen! Amen!
Mary