“Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”
Romans 5:3b-5
One evening years ago while living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I was completing a 16-mile training run through quiet neighborhoods when around mile eight, everything “came together” for me. My wife had been riding a bike alongside me, encouraging me as I ran. Each mile clocked in faster than the previous one. It was like I had wings!
I think of that run when everything “came together” with Isaiah’s description of those who put their hope in the Lord: “They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (40:31b). I dwell on Paul’s New Testament teaching of how we rejoice in our suffering as it builds in us endurance, character, and hope in our God.
We know that life is going to include suffering and weariness. Some days will feel all uphill. Yet we keep putting one foot in front of the other, looking to Jesus. Think of how the Lord has seen you through hard times in the past. Even my sunset run in Wisconsin 30 years ago reminds me that placing my hope in Him allows me the strength that only He can give!
I think of that run when everything “came together” with Isaiah’s description of those who put their hope in the Lord: “They will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (40:31b). I dwell on Paul’s New Testament teaching of how we rejoice in our suffering as it builds in us endurance, character, and hope in our God.
We know that life is going to include suffering and weariness. Some days will feel all uphill. Yet we keep putting one foot in front of the other, looking to Jesus. Think of how the Lord has seen you through hard times in the past. Even my sunset run in Wisconsin 30 years ago reminds me that placing my hope in Him allows me the strength that only He can give!
Scripture Focus
Romans 5:1-5
Insight
“Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Bible In A Year
- 1 Chronicles 20-21
- Psalm 3 9
- Matthew 3-4
