Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5
“The reason why God requires service from man is this: because He is good and merciful and He desires to confer benefits on those who persevere in His service. In proportion to God’s need of nothing is man’s need for communion with God. This is the glory of man: to persevere and remain in the service of God.”
Irenaeus of Lyons (c. 130-202) in Against Heresies as recounted Milton Walsh in Witness of the Saints: Patristic Readings in the Liturgy of the Hours (San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 2012) 235.
If you read yesterday’s post, you will see that at GTP we are experiencing a time of affliction. Thanks to those who have come to our aid. We are still in need of assistance. If you are able, make a gift here.
I am discerning this week in studying the lives of Nehemiah, Joseph, and Daniel that they did what God called them to do, and endured great difficulty, and grew through the process. God help us endure likewise.
I am praying that GTP grows stronger through this time of suffering and glorifies God by our perseverance. If you are facing hard times, I pray your suffering produces perseverance and hope because of the matchless love of God.
This is God’s generosity at it’s best. He gives us what we need, when we need it. He confers unfathomable benefits on those who don’t grow weary and lose heart. We’ve got this. God’s got us. Let us glory in our sufferings.