PRODUCING ENDURANCE

“We glory in tribulations…” (Romans 5:3)

Fasting is uncomfortable. Your flesh doesn’t enjoy being hungry as your spirit desires to grow close to God. Fasting is the act of purposely enduring hardship through the denial of food in order to see more of God in your life. While discomfort is often viewed negatively, God looks at hardship differently. Throughout scripture, we learn that hardship is actually an opportunity for good and for God.

In Romans 5:3-5, Paul writes the statement, “We also glory in tribulations…” What seems like a contradiction by our own definition is the very thing God uses to define tribulations. Here, Paul is presenting a different way to look at discomfort. Discomfort produces glory. Paul goes on to say, “…knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope…” The outcome of endurance is hope! Paul continues, teaching that the hope produced from tribulation does not disappoint or put us to shame because He doesn’t disappoint.

This idea of hardship and tribulation is supernatural. It goes against our flesh that seeks pleasure. The supernatural benefits of enduring tribulation far outweigh the suffering you experience. Train yourself to this truth through fasting! As you endure the temporary hardship of a fast, you are building endurance. Hardship is an opportunity for the supernatural in your life. Lean into this mindset as you fast. The more you grow spiritually and build endurance to overcome, the easier it is to please God.

PRAYER

Lord, build endurance within me. May all circumstances in my life give You glory. Train me up in Your ways. I desire to please you. Amen.

APPLICATION

Ask God the following:

• Are any areas in my life that do not please Him?
• What can I do to please You?
• When is my next fast?