Having Joy in Hard Times

“We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope.” - Romans 5:3-4

Life is hard, especially in times when it seems like it is falling apart. The Bible never promises that life will be easy. The reason life is so hard is because the world is full of sinners. With sinners all around, it leads to hurting people. The Bible also mentions that Satan is roaming the earth doing what he does best, hurting people, especially Christians (1 Peter 5:8).

Christians can find hope, peace, and comfort in the promise of God. Even though He promises to be with us during times of trouble, we need to know that God allows trials to happen. He let Paul suffer many trials to help him stay humble and for God’s power to be made perfect in his weaknesses. Trials causes us to become weak and vulnerable so much so that we fall on our knees in tears calling out to God for help. Trials also produce character in us like patience, dependence on God, and humility to help us become more in the image of Christ.

When God sees us depending on Him during our trials and trusting in Him to work His purposes in us, it pleases Him, and He rewards us. God’s approval gives us hope we need to find joy in any circumstance.

Prayer of the day:

Dear heavenly Father,

You’re our only hope, comfort, and peace in troubled times. We need You because this world seems like its falling apart. Please help us to find joy, no matter what happens. Give us the strength to get through the trials because they produce character in us. That is a good thing so we can be transformed into the image of our savior Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!