Faith Brings Joy - Ro. 5:3-5

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with love." Ro. 5:3-5

So what brings joy? Is it money, jobs, health, circumstances, accomplishment, material things, success, relationships?? The Bible teaches and illustrates for us, that while all of the above may bring joy for a season, they all have the capacity to disappoint and ultimately fail us as well. If our joy is based on these things, it is fragile indeed. Faith brings ultimate, enduring and eternal joy because, "all things God works for the good of those who love him..." Regardless of circumstance, by faith we know we serve a God who loves us, cares about us, and has designed a life and a future that is all part of his plan. A plan that is for our ultimate good and his glory.

God, thank you for knowing me and my future before I was even born.

Today's reading: 1Ki. 9; 2Ch. 8; Ps. 136; Ro. 5