2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And web rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but wec also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
In a world of pain relievers, symptom removers and blemish erasers, the idea of suffering having a positive effect in our lives is outside our realm of cognitive conception. Our minds refuse to accept that pain can be good in the long run. Pain tells us there is something wrong when we have a stone in our shoe. Pain tells us not to try to lift that box because it is too heavy. Pain informs us that too much sun is not good. But pain can also drive us closer to our Master. It can work good things in our faith walk. It can force out of our lives things that need to be released. But boy how we hate the process. I hate exercise! I don’t like to sweat. But I do exercise because I know that in the long run it will benefit my health, providing a healthier old age. It is only as I look at the goal that I am able to stick through the moment by moment pain present in the process. Are we keeping our eyes fixed on the goal of eternity with God? The longer the perspective we choose to view our present circumstances, the smaller the present troubles seem.
The Arnold Journey 