"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us."
Romans 15:4,5
"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus."
Trials come to test our faith. These are the things that prove that we belong to Christ, our perseverance, our obedience in difficult times. When friends are gone, and you are alone. I know many that put their trust in how many friends they have, some saying how that proves they are a Christian, but that's not what God's word says. It is God who makes the Christian stand firm in the Faith.
originally posted on January 28, 2008. I have had to repost it due to problems in Aug 2008.