“We can rejoice 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. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love” (Romans 5:3–5).
The reason you can rejoice when painful things happen isn’t because suffering makes you more acceptable to God. He isn’t a sadist, and he isn’t training you to be one either. We can rejoice when challenges arise because God’s grace to deal with every stressful situation is infinitely greater than the situation itself.
Every time the enemy takes a shot at you, it’s an opportunity to experience God’s presence and provision in far more powerful ways than the attack. With every failure, rejection, and trial you deal with, there’s an invitation to overcome it with his infinitely greater grace, hope, and peace. Rejoice, because whether today is wonderful or difficult, you are completely loved.
Equip Your Spirit 