“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Rom. 5:3-4
It’s interesting that hope comes through suffering. Too often, after long seasons of suffering, we surrender not to God’s timing but to hopelessness. So, how is it that hope comes after the suffering and perseverance?
I believe the answer comes before the “Not only so.”
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” – Rom. 5:1-2
Do you see it?
Hope is the very glory of God! Our hope is not in what He can do but in who He is. If we cling to Him through our long dark nights, those storms that threaten to sink us, only then, we will see Him more clearly and be able to testify of His saving grace. He alone can rescue and save. He alone can fill us to overflowing. He alone is our joy – everything we’ve been longing for.
Hope is not a wishful thinking that something can be. Hope is a promise already fulfilled.
“And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. When we were utterly helpless (hopeless), Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners… So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.” – Rom. 5:5-6,11
The suffering and persevering is only to shake off the worldly vision in order to give us Kingdom sight. Heaven’s perspective is the reality of what already is done. Therefore, we are never hopeless. We only need to see who Hope really is.
Lord of Heaven’s Armies, give us eyes to see Your glory – ‘Glorious Hope Fulfilled.’ I pray You speak peace for those still feeling the battering of life’s storms. Let them hear Your whisper as Your hope rises up in their hearts and washes the world’s dust from their sight. Give us all Kingdom vision.
~Shannan
Want help to gain clearer Kingdom perspective? Pre-order Tony Evans new book, “Kingdom Prayer.” It is a hope-filled powerful read. I promise you will gain clearer sight.
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