Romans 5:3‭-‬4 - Growing Through Higher Difficulty (Bible Journal)

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation (Romans 5:3‭-‬4 NLT)."

These verses remind me of Brian Tome's recent message on Baptism, and how we grow spiritually when we get uncomfortable. I have taken that to heart with other areas of my life where I long for an easy, light hearted ride, but get challenges instead. It really is true that the biggest breakthroughs and times that I have trusted in God have been in those uncomfortable, difficult trials, and as much as I want to play the game of life in easy mode, the higher difficulty levels are what help me level up.

Lord, I'm not a fan of difficult challenges, but I know You are changing me for the better through them, and You will be with me as I progress, so for that I thank You. Thank You for the times when things are indeed easier, which I have learned to appreciate more thanks to the more challenging seasons You have worked through with me. Regardless of where Your plans take me, please help me to see them as an opportunity to improve, and grow closer to You too. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.