Soap - Exult in all times

S: 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;

Romans 5:1-4

O: Paul is stating the result of being justified by Christ - He is saying that we have been made right thanks to Christ-who took upon himself the wrath of God. Because we have been saved, we should exult, meaning express deep joy in God's glory as well as expressing our deep joy in times of pain and trouble. By all things, God is to be praised-even when things are going terribly as troubles and failures help us grow in character, as Paul says.

I went up to school earlier today for an appointment I had with my counselor-I spent 30 minutes in prayer only to find out that I had to go up to the front desk to confirm my appointment, which meant I had to reschedule and I had been there for nothing but prayer (which, I found out was the main reason why God brought me out-mysterious ways...mysterious ways). Went down to my car to find that I had gotten a parking ticket (which promptly reminded me of the other reason why I came to school...to get a parking permit) and my first reaction would have normally been something I wouldn't like to say or type-but as God has been working upon my character, I first gave thanks and praised God that it wasn't at all that expensive and God had already provided money to pay for it beforehand. Praise God for everything-as it may be inconvenient and worrisome, God gave me a peace in my heart instead.

A: A parking ticket is nothing though. What will happen when I need to pay tuition but I have little to nothing? Or worse-how would I react to someone close and dear to me passing away (I've never had this happen...yet)? My faith could only be stretched so far and I know I must react in such a way that glorifies the Lord-as it says in this Word, "but we also exult in our tribulations" - This can be so hard and overwhelmingly difficult, only those who place their whole faith in God could possibly express joy in such times. But I must strive for it and be ready to be tested-as God will not baby me, He wants me to grow and I want myself to grow!

P: Lord, I pray that I would be joyful and at peace at all times. You have saved me and given Your Son-what greater thing can be given? None! For all things fall under your gift of salvation, and therefore I pray that I would exult in all times that test my faith-I pray that you would build up my character to be one of Godly character...forever praising Your name despite the weather because I have hope in the One that never fails. Thank You for giving me the strength to stand up against the day's troubles-I'm so glad that You pushed me to have patience. By all these things, In Christ, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria