Romans 5:3–4: And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
The sequence is: tribulation—patience—proven character—hope. Our English word “tribulation” comes from a Latin word tribulum. In Paul’s day, a tribulum was a heavy piece of timber with spikes in it, used for threshing the grain. The tribulum was drawn over the grain and it separated the wheat from the chaff. As we go through tribulations, and depend on God’s grace, the trials only purify us and help to get rid of the chaff. 1
We naturally want to escape pressure, but tribulation forces us to stay under it—and ultimately this produces perseverance or stability. “Perseverance [produces] character.” The word here derives from a group of words that have to do with the refining of metals, dross being burned away. Paul is speaking of sterling character—character without impurities. Hodge calls this “tried integrity.” This refined, pure character tends to confirm and strengthen our hope in the glory of God. 2
Application
- What is there about your character that needs a little refining?
- What kind of pressure or trial is God allowing currently in your life, because He wants to bring about a beautiful change in you?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your grace to rejoice in difficulty. Help me to become more like You.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
2. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.