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struggles and a party


There are some things that just don’t call for having a party.  Some do.  But not struggles.  Not stress and tribulation.


God says different.  Or Paul does in his letter to the church at Rome.  One of the greatest books on the Bible as a theological text book.  We learn how to live by faith and live a transformed life.


But back to the tribulation and throwing a party.  Just what did Paul say?


Romans 5:3-5  NASB

And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.


The struggles we might qualify as tribulation have meaning in our lives.  God uses that and more to build character and to continue to reenforce true hope.  Hope in who we know loves us most.  That would in God.


So, it is not really about throwing a party.  It is about accepting the things God is doing to make us more like Him.  We were made in the image of God, and what honors God most is when we become more like Him.  In the struggles of life we find His means which leads to us having more character, the character God desires us to have.


Follow the progression… understating tribulation, persevere through them, watch God build our character, live with hope, and hold on to God.  He loves you.  He is working in you.  And your heart will never be the same.


Take a little inventory as life comes your way.  When things are hard, watch what God is doing.  When you realize that God has a plan, note what He is doing in your life and in those around you.


You will be changed and be living with the hope that only God can give.


Throw a party when the struggles get real.

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