By Brother Gary Wheeler

We are now entering the liturgical season of Lent, as we discipline ourselves to prepare for the cross.

During this time, our weekly UCAI devotions will focus on Romans 5, with each author taking part of or an entire verse from the chapter.

Today, we look at the first half of Romans 5:3:

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings… (Romans 5:3a, ESV)

First, let’s consider the phrase “not only that.” What is Paul referring to?

He first declares that our justification has produced peace with God. No more worrying about whether we have His favor, whether our lives will have meaning, or that our sins are piled too high ever to be removed. We have shalom, eirēnē, paz, paix, peace.

Second, we have access to grace, God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.

Third, we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. There is an incredible end to the story.

Therefore, and in addition to these things, “we rejoice/boast in our sufferings.”

Now, this is a completely unnatural reaction. Have you ever said to the phlebotomist, “I rejoice that you are digging into my arm with that massive needle.” Do you say to your boss or coach, “I’m going to boast to everyone that I got yelled at.” Do you thank the preacher for a particularly long and boring sermon?

Seriously, do you rejoice during your chemo session, alongside the grave of a loved one, when you find yourself alone because of your faith?

Paul did. He rejoiced in sufferings, and we know he had plenty of them.

How?

Why?

Well, we are going to learn the answers to these questions in the coming weeks.

But for now, consider that your human reaction to suffering should be the reaction of a redeemed child of God. The change that God accomplishes in our lives—His peace, grace, and hope—leads us to a sanctified response to life’s struggles and troubles. Just as we no longer wallow in sin, so too should we refrain from bemoaning our sufferings.

Instead, we should rejoice, because…

Well, you’ll have to wait until next week when Brother Brian Shimer will focus on the second half of the verse.