Romans 5:1-5 – “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also exult 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.”  NASU

Once we have become members of the Body of Christ and the Family of God, we will experience difficulties or tribulations.  We will experience them before our conversion, but once converted, we will experience them in direct connection to our faith and our walk with God.  The apostle Paul informs us that we are to exult or rejoice as did James regarding tribulations, difficulties, and trials.  He tells us that some specific benefits will result from these encounters.

• Tribulation brings about Perseverance.
• Perseverance brings about Proven Character.
• Proven Character brings about Hope. 
• Hope does not Disappoint because the Love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

If we do not persevere, we will be like the seed sown in rocky soil, and while it may spring up quickly because it has no root, it will wither and die.  But if we persevere, we will find that the result is Proven Character, and we will be anchored in Hope! 

Character is important to God, and much is said in the Bible regarding it.  People look for character in Christians and are motivated and drawn to what we have to offer in Christ when they see it.  When they do not see it or see a deficiency in It, they are repulsed and repelled.  We have all been told, “Christians are no different from the world.  They do the same things and live with no higher standard.”  However, we should! 

It is incumbent upon us to present a life to the world that is above reproach.  It is important to demonstrate Proven Character in every situation because we are children of the Most High God.  We are not just representing ourselves. We are representatives of God and should manifest Him in our character.

It has been said, “You are the only Bible some people will ever read; what is the Gospel according to you?”  That is a sobering thought.  The fact that my life, actions, and character can be a motivation or a stumbling block for another person challenges me constantly to strive to demonstrate godly character.  Do I fail?  Yes!  Do I keep trying?  Absolutely!  It is not whether I fail or not from time to time. Do I keep Pressing Toward the Mark of the Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ Jesus?

May God enable you to present a living example to those within your sphere of influence that draws to Him. 

Blessings as you go through your day!