Read: Romans 5:1-11
Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance. (v. 3)
When Paul talks about rejoicing in suffering, I’m tempted to wonder if he’s forgotten about the perfectionists in the room. Perfectionists like me would rather hide their sufferings and imperfections than shine a spotlight on them. In fact, most of us would probably rather not share our struggles with the world, whether we’re perfectionists or not.
Yet, in this oft-quoted passage on suffering, the apostle Paul has hidden a profound word on delight. Delight is more than happiness; it’s wholeness and peace in the midst of our brokenness. The word that is translated “rejoice” in verse 3 can also be translated “boast” or “glory.” Lest we think this means we should be excited about our weaknesses, we need to look back at verse 1 to be reminded of what this passage is all about: “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The end goal is peace with God, not personal perfection. In fact, because of our imperfection, our peace and union with God is sweeter because it’s something we haven’t earned. It is a gift of God’s grace. We rejoice in our sufferings because they show us the wideness of God’s mercy. We glory in our weaknesses because they show us the power of God’s strength. We find peace with God because Jesus didn’t shy away from our sufferings but entered into them. —April Fiet
As you pray, offer God your weaknesses and imperfections as an act of gratitude.
About the Author
April Fiet co-pastors First Presbyterian Church in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and is a published author. She enjoys gardening, feeding her backyard chickens, and learning about new things.
