As we prepare for certain persecution in the not-so-distant future, we must learn all we can about what the scriptures have to say about this. One such passage is Romans 5:3-4, where Paul outlines the progression we go through to achieve victory through persecution: “And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.”
I exhort you to commit the passage to memory for its encouragement. As we anticipate a day when owning a Bible may be illegal, we should all be memorizing as much scripture as possible. Do not be lazy or naïve in thinking that will never be a reality where you live. God’s Word tells us the days will only grow darker (2 Timothy 3:1-5), so we must prepare before it is too late.
Rejoice in Afflictions
The first step to victory through persecution is to rejoice in our afflictions (Romans 5:3). That seems like such an odd and illogical thing to do. But Paul doubled down on his instruction when he wrote to the church in Thessalonica, encouraging them to rejoice in every circumstance (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). To rejoice in difficult times requires us to keep our eyes on Jesus and not on what we are going through. It means living in service to others rather than reveling in our selfishness. There is always good to be found in serving and worshipping the Lord. Rejoicing in hard times strengthens our resolve and builds endurance.
Endurance Produces Proven Character
You won’t withstand the storms of life with a weak character. Just as a lack of exercise will leave you unable to participate in physically challenging activities, a flabby character will quickly fatigue when persecution comes. Paul tells us endurance produces a strong character (Romans 5:4). The Apostle finished the race God gave him to run because he had the endurance to accomplish it (2 Timothy 4:7). We all want to finish well, and that’s going to require developing a hardened and proven character. This comes from enduring the trials that come our way by trusting in the power and strength of Jesus Christ (Philippians 4:13; Psalm 46:1; Colossians 1:11).
Proven Character Produces Hope
Developing a strong character gives us hope for the future. We know there is a great reward waiting for us on the other side of our trials. Paul concludes his progression by telling us proven character produces hope (Romans 5:4). What is this hope? It is the salvation found in the Lord Jesus (1 Peter 1:3-9). Fixing our eyes on the glorious gospel of our Savior provides all the hope we need in the oppressive and suffocating evil of this world (Romans 8:18). This hope in Jesus is our light in the darkness (John 8:12).
Victory through Persecution
Life can often seem hopeless. The bad news is it’s about to get worse. Most of us have yet to experience significant persecution for our faith. Even a casual reading of the times should inform you that’s about to change. I can’t say how or to what extent, but we know Jesus promised we will face trouble in this world (John 16:33). We know many countries already persecute our brothers and sisters for their faith. Our turn is coming, but we must not be afraid (Matthew 10:28). There is victory in Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:55-58). In the dark days ahead, we will experience this victory through persecution.