No End without the Means

Romans 5
1) Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2) By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3) And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4) And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5) And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.


In Romans 8:28, we are told that "ALL things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." So many times, we quote this Scripture without actually thinking about its implications. As people of God, we will go through things. We will suffer, BUT those sufferings will reap the blessings of God in our lives.

There are no "short cuts" to spiritual maturity. It comes only with relationship with God. Now, when we are truly dedicated to the work of our Father and have relationship with Him, tribulation is inevitable. Tribulation is opposition, though it comes in many forms. That opposition, however, does not define us, as we are justified by faith. Our peace is through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So, don't be discouraged. Do not get angry, frustrated or upset. Just know that you are justified, so you can stand and maintain peace in your relationship with our Father.

Have you ever prayed for more patience, more hope or more peace? Then, it seemed as if your world turned upside down? Well, that's the PROCESS that God has warned us of. That peace comes through trials. That patience comes through perserverance. Hope and experience are developed through trials. Living for God does not mean that we live an exclusive life of victory, wealth and perfection. It means we are equipped to fight. It means we have accepted a call to work for the will of God to be established in the earth. It means you are willing to become a living sacrifice, and that is only your reasonable service.

There are no shortcuts. You cannot have the end without the means. Selah!