Week 5: Hope in the Midst of Trials

Scripture: Romans 5:3-5

Welcome back to our Lenten Series blog! Last week, we explored the call to sacrifice and self-denial, and I hope you’ve been encouraged to take up your cross and follow Jesus, even when it’s hard. This week, we’re shifting our focus to a theme that’s especially relevant when the journey feels long, and the challenges seem overwhelming: Hope.

In Romans 5:3-5, Paul writes, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

These words remind us that even in the midst of trials, we have hope. So, let’s jump into Week 5: Hope in the Midst of Trials.

What Does the Bible Say About Suffering and Hope?

The Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of suffering. In fact, it acknowledges that trials are a part of life. But it also offers a powerful perspective: suffering is not meaningless. It produces perseverance, character, and ultimately, hope.

James 1:2-4 encourages us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials because they test our faith and develop perseverance. And Hebrews 12:1-2 reminds us to fix our eyes on Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of faith,” who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.

Why Is Hope Important During Lent?

Lent is a season of reflection and repentance, but it’s also a season of hope. As we walk through the wilderness of Lent, we are reminded that Easter is coming. The cross leads to the resurrection and suffering leads to glory.

Hope is the anchor that keeps us steady in the storms of life. It reminds us that God is with us, that He is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28), and that His promises are true.

Practical Steps for Finding Hope in Trials

Here are some practical ways to cultivate hope during challenging times:

1. Pray Honestly: Bring your struggles to God in prayer. He already knows your heart, so don’t be afraid to be honest with Him.
2. Lean on Scripture: Meditate on Bible verses that remind you of God’s promises, such as Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11, and Psalm 34:18.
3. Seek Community: Share your struggles with trusted friends, family, or your church group. Let them pray for you and encourage you.
4. Practice Gratitude: Even in difficult times, there are things to be thankful for. Make a list of God’s blessings and reflect on them daily.
5. Focus on Eternity: Remember that this life is temporary. Fix your eyes on the eternal hope we have in Christ (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

Job’s Faithfulness

Let me tell you about Job, a man who had it all, lost it all, and still managed to keep his faith. Imagine this: Job was wealthy, respected, and living his best life. He had a big family, a lot of livestock (the ancient version of a healthy stock portfolio), and a reputation for being a good person. Then, out of nowhere, life hit him with a series of plot twists that would make even a Netflix series look tame. In one day, he lost his livestock, his servants, and even his kids. If that wasn’t enough, he got hit with painful sores from head to toe. But here’s the kicker: Job didn’t throw in the towel. He didn’t curse God or give up. Instead, he said something that still blows my mind: “Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him” (Job 13:15).

Now, I don’t know about you, but if I lost my Wi-Fi for a day, I’d be complaining. Job lost everything, and he still held on to hope. His story reminds us that even when life feels like a never-ending series of bad days, we can trust in God’s goodness. So, the next time you’re having a rough day (or week, or year), remember Job. If he can keep hoping in God after all that, maybe we can too.

Be Encouraged

Trials are not the end of the story. Just as winter gives way to spring, and Lent gives way to Easter, our suffering will give way to glory. Romans 8:18 assures us, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

This Lent let’s hold on to the hope we have in Christ. He is with us in the storm, and He will bring us through to the other side.

A Question to Reflect On

As we close today, I want to leave you with 2 questions to reflect on: What is one trial you’re facing right now? Would you allow yourself find hope in Christ in the middle of it? Take a moment to sit with that question, and let the Holy Spirit fill your heart with peace.

Let’s pray together:

Lord, thank You that You are with me in every trial. Fill my heart with hope and remind me of Your promises. Amen.

A Song of Hope

When trials come (and they will!), music can anchor our hearts to hope. This week, let these words minister to you:

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

Let’s Journey Together

Thank you for joining me today. I’m so excited to walk this Lenten journey with you. Don’t forget to join us for our Midweek Service this Wednesday at 5:00 PM at Emmanuel Chapel. Let’s continue to grow together in faith and hope.

Until next time, may God’s peace and presence be with you.