We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 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.

Romans 5:3-5

Problems and Trials ➡️ Endurance ➡️ Strength of Character ➡️ Confident Hope of Salvation

Problems and trials. No one likes them. They slow us down, frustrate us, make us sad. We avoid them whenever possible. We try to ignore them. We tend to complain about them.

BUT God, our Creator and Great Physician, God hardwired us to do so much more than fuss, avoid, ignore, or complain.

God created us with the ability to grow from problems and trials.

In fact, dealing with our own problems or observing others deal with theirs is the primary way we grow. There are whole fields of study dedicated to growth mindset right now, especially education, job productivity, and career studies. It’s really cool stuff, but it’s nothing new.

God shared the importance of problems and trials as a catalyst for growth with Paul thousands of years ago. God also showed Paul time and time again that He is right by our side in every problem and every trial.

We can face our problems and trials with confident expectation knowing that God will make something good of our situation.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

When we don’t run away from or ignore tough situations, God helps us build endurance. When we stick with the process, that endurance grows in us strength of character.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:2-4

As stronger people, we are better able to tune out the distractions of the world and focus on the reality that God is our hope and His salvation is not only eternally secure, it is an ever present help in this life too.

• Is there a problem or trial in your life that you’ve been avoiding, ignoring, or complaining about?
• Maybe you’ve been trying to tackle it head on using your own power?
• Whatever approach you’ve been using, isn’t it time to turn that problem or trial over to the Father’s hands and trust in Him to see it made right?
• Isn’t it time to learn endurance from not just the greatest coach ever but the very Physician who understands exactly what you need to grow and mature because He created you?

Beloved, acknowledge whatever it is that’s challenging you today and then give it over to the Father. Rest assured, you’ll be amazed at the work He does in you and through you!