Set Apart July 27 Devotional
July 27, 2024
ROMANS 5:3-5 | 3 And not only that, but we also boast in our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
A second blessing of persecution is that it clarifies our identity and purpose. Enduring persecution or criticism or opposition develops our characters. The things we endure increase our capacity for endurance. Trials produce virtues, habits, and practices that shape our souls. Our faith moves from shallow and self-serving, to deeper and more centered on God’s will and other’s needs. Our attitudes are refined and our backs stiffened when we walk the harder roads, identifying with our Lord. We know more clearly who we are in Him.
Has trouble ever clarified your faith or firmed your identity?
Gracious God,
Help me remember that difficult times endured for Your sake can shape my heart and soul, developing stronger virtues and clearer vision.
Amen.
