Romans 5:1-5 – Hope does not disappoint

In the first five verses of Romans 5, Paul set out to describe the blessedness of being justified. We must know, however, that being justified does not mean that we will be free from trials. In fact it includes trials but they have very pointed purposes.

As a foundation, believers have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. It means to be free from turmoil and unrest. Peace is not being trouble-free, but being in the state of quiet confidence in God in the midst of trouble. A justified person is at rest with God and with others. Not only that, Paul assures us that believers are also the recipients of God’s grace, the state of divine favor where we will enjoy continually. Just as faith ushers us believers into the state of being justified, it also initiates us into the state of divine favor and approval.    

And since as believers, our relationship with God is settled, we will have an expected end, Paul calls it hope. This very hope produces a jubilant approach to living, knowing that we will ultimately receive the glory of God. This glory has been seen in parts through God’s creation and also Christ’s incarnation, death and resurrection but will ultimately bring us to share in Christ’s eternal glory. This hope will never let us down. And the very thought that this hope ensures that we will share in Christ’s eternal glory, brings us rejoicing even now.

And as we live with the expected end in mind, we can rejoice in tribulation. Paul was not referring to the petty inconveniences, pains or disappointments experienced in one’s daily living. He was referring to the hostile opposition believers would face from the world that opposes God. This is to be expected by Christians, so here Paul gave reasons for why believers should adopt a joyful attitude in times of tribulations.

He further said that tribulations mold character and build hope. Perseverance can never be attained without the assistance of tribulation because without it, there is nothing to persevere. Perseverance, in turn, will produce character and character produces greater hope or trust. Hope causes us to be confident that God is trustworthy. Furthermore, tribulations assure us of love. It helps us to know the love that God had poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit and by the demonstration in the death of Christ.

How not to live a life feeling triumphant when we are so loved by God? Calvary stands as the memorial of His complete love for us. And now the Holy Spirit takes that love and applies it in our lives. We can live a life of peace in times of trouble, joy in times of tribulation, and hope in times of uncertainty. Praise the Lord!