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24Reflections on Hope: Day 3
The Reflection on Hope: Day 3
Introduction
Reflections on Hope is a 5-day devotion to what God has to
say to you and me about how he uses our struggles to form 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 Three: Character
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
Perseverance births character. The Greek word for character
in this verse implies tested and proven worth. Through the crucible of endurance, our true nature is revealed refined, and approved to be of worth.
Think of gold being purified. The intense heat burns away
impurities, leaving behind something precious and pure. Our character is forged
in the same way. As we persevere, God removes the dross of our
lives—selfishness, pride, fear—revealing a heart that reflects His own.
Character is not built overnight. It’s a slow, painful
steady process, much like a sculptor chiseling away at a block of marble to
reveal a masterpiece. Each trial we face is another stroke of the chisel,
shaping us into the image of Christ. It’s in the fire of perseverance that our
character is revealed and strengthened, making us more resilient,
compassionate, and Christ-like.
While we are being conformed to the character of Christ, our
trials are a necessary ingredient.
Lord, I thank You for the trials that shape my character. Help me to embrace the refining process, trusting that You are creating something beautiful in me. May my life reflect Your character more each day, as I grow in grace and truth.
Amen.
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