ESOCS Devotional 4 September
TEXT: Romans 5: 1-11
MEMORY VERSE: “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience.” Romans 5: 3 KJV
The Christian race is not one that is only rosy but rough too. “Come walk with me, the road is straight and narrow, come walk with me, you cannot walk alone; for the road is rough and there are many dangers, come walk with and I will see you through”, were the words of a song writer. Tribulation is misfortune, pain, difficulty, suffering, trial, ordeal, etc. Financial difficulty, health challenge, family problems, joblessness, etc. are few examples of sources of tribulation. It can strike at any time.
For first century Christians, suffering was the rule rather than the exception. They were maltreated, killed in the most gruesome manner; e.g. Stephen (the first Christian martyr). However, they rejoiced, and with patience, the tribulation seemed like nothing. Apostle Paul tells us that in the future, we will become, but until then we must overcome. This means that we will experience difficulties that will help us grow.
What then is the purpose of tribulation? Why should we rejoice in tribulation and what is the antidote? God uses life difficulties and Satan’s attack to build our character and to test our faith. We rejoice in tribulation not because we like its pain or deny its tragedy but it acts like a ‘balm’ on a wound. The antidote is patience. Patience is a virtue. It means to forebear, to persevere, to endure, etc. So, with rejoicing and patience, we overcome. The challenges that we face and overcome will develop our patience, which in turn will strengthen our character, deepen our trust in God, and give us greater confidence about the future. The total package is the experience we gain from it, which guides us in future.
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
In real terms, what is our attitude towards tribulation? Do we give up and run to ‘Egypt’ for help, or glory in tribulation while patiently waiting for help from God? The greatest lessons here are that: (i) there must be tribulations; even much more as the day of the Lord draws near. (ii) We should resist it and be patient. (iii) Look up for God’s help, rather than complain. (iv) Glory or rejoice in it. (v) The challenge of today is an experience that toughens us to face a greater one in future. (vi)There is joy in victory.
CHALLENGES
- Have you ever faced any tribulation? How did you deal with it? Did it strengthen you? Did it lead to soul winning?
PRAYER POINT:
- Pray and ask God to sustain you in times of tribulation and increase your faith by it.
FURTHER READING:Romans 5:4-6; Romans 12:12; James 1:2-4
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ESOCS Devotional 4 September
