Romans 5:3-4

3. . . . we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;

4. perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Roger 1-11

1. I have not suffered as intensely as many others; yet, I too have suffered.

2. Mostly, I was not aware I suffered; yet, a few times, I was.

3. Suffering beyond a certain point becomes intolerable; help to endure is needed.

4. A theme in my children’s description of me is: I persevere.

5. The product of suffering produced perseverance in me.

6. A conviction came over me: truth was what I demanded of myself.

7. That was character emerging in me.

8. This is when I became comfortable with myself; whether it drowns me or crowns me, what I say is what I mean.

9. I have assurance that whatever challenges me, all will work out for me and mine and yours; this is hope inside of me.

10. Hope is powerful, because you can see a brighter day to come;

11. those, who see it, understand that is what the day will become.