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Reflections on Hope: Day 1

The Reflections on Hope

Introduction

Reflections on Hope is a 5-day devotion on what God has to say to you and me about how he uses our struggles to produce in us perseverance, character, and a living hope anchored in the nature of God the Father, in the work of Christ on the cross and the current work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.

Day One: Tribulations

Scripture: Romans 5:3-5 (NKJV) - “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us”

Devotion

Life’s journey often brings us through valleys of tribulation—seasons of intense challenge and suffering. It is in these moments that we may feel overwhelmed, our hearts heavy with worry and doubt. Yet, Paul encourages us to “glory in tribulations.”  Not because our God is a sadistic manic forcing us to be proud of our suffering but because

This is a profound invitation to view our struggles not as mere hardships, but as divine opportunities for growth and transformation.

Imagine a potter shaping clay. The clay must endure pressure and molding to become a beautiful vessel. Similarly, our tribulations are the Potter’s hands, shaping us into the likeness of Christ. These trials are not random; they are purposeful, designed by a loving God who sees beyond our present pain to our ultimate good.

When we face tribulations, it’s easy to ask, “Why, God?” But a better question might be, “What are You teaching me through this?” Trust that every struggle is a chapter in your story that God is writing—a story where every conflict leads to a deeper understanding of His love and perseverance.

Choose to look at the end goal of your tribulation like a marathon runner looking at the finishing line.  The apostle James states it better: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” James 1:2-3.

Prayer

Lord, help me to see my tribulations as opportunities for growth. Give me the strength to trust in Your purpose for my life, even when I don’t understand it. May I find joy in knowing that You are with me, shaping me through every trial. Amen.