“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 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” (Rom. 5:3-5 KJV).
The individual that is operating in peace in the middle of a test and trial isn’t shaken by the devil’s onslaught. That is an individual who walks in love as a lifestyle, and is confident that their prayer is effective.
When the test or trial shows up, they don’t fear. Instead they say, “All right, the test and trial is here and I am going to get on the Word and stay on the Word. I am going to be moved by what the Word says instead of what I hear, or what they say, or what it feels like, praise God.”
Well that individual is glorying in tribulations. They see tribulation as an opportunity to experience victory. The enemy’s attack is an opportunity for you to slam him and to make him pay double. If the enemy is messing with you, it is because he sees that there is something good heading your way.
So when things break loose, know that you must be on the right path. And since you know you are on the right track, then it’s time to have some joy in the middle of this trial, because you are going to have the experience of VICTORY.
Romans further says that experience gives you hope. You have hope because God brought you through last time, and He’ll bring you through this time. And He’ll bring you through next time. The scripture reads, “And hope maketh not ashamed….” Now that word ashamed means hope doesn’t cause you to be disappointed. Why not? Because the love of God is poured out in your heart by the Holy Ghost.
What does love have to do with it? He didn’t switch subjects, did he? No. He just told you that because you have love in you. Then that love will allow your faith to go to work in you in the middle of the temptation test and trial.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love” (Gal. 5:6). It doesn’t matter who you are, your faith will begin to work when love is activated. That word worketh is translated from a Greek word which means faith is activated by love; faith becomes efficient by love. Hence, you will not be disappointed when you hope in God, because love has caused your faith to work.
Scripture References: James 1:2-4; 1 Corinthians 13:13
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Keith Butler has been an ordained minister since 1974. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and holds diplomas from Canada Christian College and Rhema Bible Training Center.
He serves in ministry with the support of his lovely wife, Pastor Deborah L. Butler, and their children: Pastor Andre Butler (granddaughters Alexis, Angela, and April), Pastor MiChelle Ferguson and husband Pastor Lee (grandson Lucas), and Minister Kristina Jenkins and husband Pastor Joel (grandsons Andrew and Austin, and granddaughter Alyssa).