Romans 5:3-5

We glory in tribulation also -> We do not just rejoice when all seems well

The reason for this is because even though all may not seem well, all is well!

While tribulations are not fun, they are extraordinarily valuable (1 Pet. 1:6-9)

Tribulation works Patience

(afflictions produce endurance) -> patience is not a feeling of contentment, but an ability to endure/persevere

Much like Moses in the wilderness (Heb. 11:27)

Patience/endurance is earned through affliction -> it is like the muscle that grows stronger when torn by exercise

It is for this reason we are urged to not faint (Is. 40:28-31)!

Patience Works Experience

(endurance produces proven character) -> experience only comes when we don’t give up

Do you want to be used like the heroes of faith? -> patiently endure so you can get the needed experience

There was a lot of suffering that led to the sweet concluding words at the end of Paul’s life (2 Tim. 4:6-8)

A child of God needs experience, and that experience is earned

When the going gets tough, the tough lean on Jesus (Prov. 3:5-7)

Experience Works Hope

(proven character produces hope) -> this is why experience is so important!

We have hope when we remember the faithfulness of God (2 Chron. 20:4-13)

When we endure trials and experience the faithfulness of God, we gain a proven character that finds it easier to trust God

Hope Maketh Not Ashamed

(hope will not disappoint us) -> it is no wishy-washy hope, but rather a sure one!

When our hope is in Jesus, we will never be let down (Ps. 130:1-6) -> consider the power of this promise!

All of this is a chain that occurs when we endure affliction -> “don’t pray for patience” is nonsense and soft

Grow up and be strong (1 Cor. 16:13)!