Topic: Romans 5: 3-4 [John Hagee Devotional 8 December 2019]

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And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope

Being grafted into the Vine does not guarantee eternal sunshine and storm-free days. On the other side of salvation, we often endure seasons of struggle.

We experience dry deserts and devastating storms. We endure the long winters and silence of delays. Be assured that hard times will bring a harvest!

If our life in Christ will mature, we must be willing to experience growing pains. Struggle is synonymous with growth! In the vineyard, every branch that produces clusters of glowing grapes has suffered pain to mature.

The seed planted in the soil has struggled to break ground. The plant has struggled to dig deep roots, to push out leaves, to blossom and bear fruit. We celebrate the harvest, but pain accompanies production.

By nature, we resist struggle. We prefer pain-free days. We long for the easy route, the results without the cost of growth. But we will not have the strength to sustain growth if we do not work for the outcome.

Where is our character developed? The good days do not make us emotionally strong, expand our confidence, or establish our fortitude. Struggle makes us strong. We can glory in tribulations knowing that our perseverance produces much fruit.

Blessing:

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. May God root and establish your faith. Through every dry season and every storm, may you persevere until His character is developed in you, and you lack nothing through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Today’s Bible Reading: 

Old Testament 

Hosea 10:1-14:9

New Testament 

Jude 1:1-25

Psalms & Proverbs 

Psalm 127:1-5

Proverbs 29:15-17