Suffering can leave us asking why God allowed our pain and wondering whether He is still at work. Romans 5 invites us to bring those questions to God while holding firmly to what Jesus has accomplished for us. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we have been made right with God, have peace with Him, and stand in His grace. Our future is secure in the hope of sharing in His glory.
That hope changes how we face suffering today. As we continue trusting Jesus, God works through our suffering to develop perseverance, proven character, and hope. The Holy Spirit assures us of God's love, even when our circumstances remain painful and our questions remain unanswered. We can ask, "God, how are You at work in this suffering?" Our pain does not mean He has abandoned us. We can be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Hope doesn't take away our pain. Hope gives us the strength to endure.