We Rejoice In Our Sufferings
(Romans 5:3-4)
No one in this world is free from suffering. Trials, both great and small, come upon everyone without warning. For this reason, life is frequently depicted as a boundless sea of suffering, known as "Kohae" (苦海), the ocean of tribulation. However, the Scriptures call us to rejoice even in the midst of such tribulations and hardships.
1. Rejoice in the midst of suffering.
The Apostle Paul, though once a persecutor of the Church, experienced a complete transformation after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, becoming a faithful witness to the Gospel. However, his faith led him to endure great suffering like being beaten, imprisoned, and suffering from hunger and numerous hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-27). Despite these trials, Paul remained resolute, keeping his eyes solely on the Lord. He encouraged believers not to despair but to rejoice even in times of tribulation. In the same way, may we also live a victorious life, rejoicing in suffering and remaining unwavering in the Lord, no matter the circumstances.

2. Develop perseverance.
Perseverance is the endurance of trials in faith. Moses was not permitted to enter the land of Canaan due to a momentary uncontrolled emotion (Numbers 20:10-12). However, when we patiently endure hardships and remain in prayer, God transforms us into people of great character without deficiency and uses us for His divine purposes (Romans 12:12). Therefore, it is only those who persevere to the very end that can live an honorable life.

3. Become a person of refined character.
Hardships teach us endurance and perseverance Much like refining of metal, perseverance is the process that matures and refines one’s character. Even in the midst of intense suffering, Job preserved his faith and was transformed into a person of refined character, like pure gold. On the other hand, an immature character is revealed in anger, resentment, and a lack of emotional control. Just as the Apostle Paul confessed, "I die every day" (1 Corinthians 15:31), it is through self-discipline and submission that one matures into a person of mature character, receiving God's abundant blessings.

4. Attain true hope.
Hardship is the process that leads us toward the fulfillment of our dreams and hopes, and suffering serves as the tunnel of hope that guides us to blessings. When we, in faith, dream holy dreams and pray, enduring all difficulties with patience, God works all things together for good (Romans 8:28). Therefore, even in the midst of suffering, let us not be discouraged but move forward in faith, looking to the hope that the Lord will fulfill. I pray, in the name of the Lord, that we may all be those who, through enduring to the end, reach our holy dreams and hopes.



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