Romans 5:3-5

The Roman Christians can experience peace with God and reconciliation with Him because of what Jesus did. But there's even more that they have (and also what we can have).

Paul notes that he and the Roman Christians also "glory in tribulations" (5:3). At first glance, it seems pretty crazy since tribulations aren't really good. But then Paul explains that the glory happens because it leads to a chain.

• Tribulation (5:3) can lead to...

• Perseverance (5:3), which can lead to...

• Character (5:4), which can lead to...

• Hope (5:4)

Here's a little breakdown of the chain. Perseverance is a major character trait of "don't give up", and such character can shine through when it's easy to give up (which is what most tribulations are about). After all, part of the reason why great iconic leaders (like FDR, Washington, Lincoln, MLK Jr., Mother Teresa, etc.) are great and iconic is because they helped lead through tough times. Horace even talked about how tough times can get some character traits and talents to shine while easier times may not do the same thing (and the quote is notable enough to make it into an AP essay prompt).

Character is not only fostered by perseverance but also a change in outlook (especially since we now get to have peace with God thanks to Jesus). As for the hope part, Paul expands on this a little further and talks about how "hope does not disappoint" due to " the love of God [...] poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (5:5). The Holy Spirit is basically a great helper who guides us to Christ-like character (John expands on that in John 14 to 16). Also, considering that God has done what man can not (provide righteousness on our behalf), we can also believe that God can help us overcome through tough times when we struggle and not only survive but thrive in the end. In fact, that has happened before in the early church while persecutions are facing left and right, and should we die, we could be with God (part of the promise of "everlasting life" as proclaimed in John 3:16 and other places).