When I was growing up, if I were uncertain about something, my dad would always reply with, “It will put hair on your chest.” His “boomer” way of saying it will make a man out of you. I couldn’t see how eating liver would put hair on my chest, let alone make me a man. As a believer in Jesus Christ, you will go through something they call tribulations. These are intense times of trials that seem to last forever. Fortunately, you have been given peace by Jesus, and your hope does not disappoint when you trust Him.
ROMANS 5:3-5
“And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; 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.”
The Peace of God
Chapter five of Romans tells you about the peace you received when you put your faith in Jesus Christ. Because you have that peace, you can endure the tribulations that come into your life. That peace takes your tribulation and produces perseverance and character in your life. Those serve you well as you mature in your faith. So Paul tells us to rejoice in our tribulations because Jesus is doing a work in your life.
God’s Love Poured into You
There is also something unique that happens when the peace of Jesus comes into your life. The Holy Spirit pours the love of God into your heart. This isn’t a trickle but more a downpour, like a waterfall. Your life should be full of the love of Jesus and the Spirit doing the work in your heart.
Hope Does Not Disappoint
What if you are reading this, and you don’t have peace, hope, or love flowing out of your heart? There are several explanations for this. First, you haven’t put your faith in Jesus Christ. Maybe you’ve been acting like a Christian but never took the plunge and gave your life to Him. Second, there is sin in your life—you where have asked for forgiveness. Finally, your life plan is so full there is no room for God. All of these can be remedied by going to Jesus and asking Him.