Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 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.
Romans 5:1-2

We can rejoice exceedingly; be highly elated, jubilant in the hope of the glory of God! How can we have this hope?

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;
Romans 5:3-‬4 NASB

I want to look at just one portion of this verse where it speaks of hope. . .

“We exult in our proven character knowing that proven character brings about hope.”
Romans 5:3-4 NASB

I was so excited when the Lord opened my eyes to this portion of the verse. I pondered how proven character brings about hope.

As I have examined myself over the years of my life I have seen many flaws to my character. I am a flawed character. But God. . . He stepped into my life, brought me salvation and then started working on my character with the help of His Holy Spirit living in me. God’s work in me has changed me. When I look at myself and see a different person than I was, that brings me hope. God changing me into the person He created me to be. The growing pains have been difficult but worth it when I see how God is sanctifying me. Not by what I have done but by what He has done in transforming me. My proven character came by the work of the Holy Spirit in me. That is 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.
Romans 5:5

Continually Seeking Him,

Sharon