Observation: We all hate hard times. We hate facing difficulties and set backs. Paul tells us that we can rejoice when we face these kinds of circumstances. Why? They produce something good in us. They teach us endurance and endurance produces a stronger character inside of us.

What kind of person do we instinctively trust? We trust those who have been through tough times and have persevered in the midst of them. We sense that they are not going to easily change on us or give up on us. We sense that they are people of substance.
We can be that kind of trustworthy person but only if we are willing to endure through hard times. It´s worth it! It may not, in the middle of it, feel like it, but it is worth it.

Application/Confession: I can see this issue from both sides. I see how hard times have tempered and matured me as a person. I am also currently facing less severe, but trials none the less. I really want to be faithful and grow that next measure that God has for me. He is teaching me about faith and I want to completely learn the lessons.