Tribulation in the Bible

Tribulation—pressure, distress, suffering—is an unavoidable part of the Christian life. Jesus told his disciples plainly: "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). Tribulation, then, is not a sign that God has abandoned us, but an occasion for faith to deepen and character to be formed. The apostle Paul, himself tested in countless ways, goes so far as to glory in it: "We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). Tribulation is not an end in itself, but a path: God uses it to shape the character of his children into the likeness of Christ. James likewise exhorts believers: "Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations" (James 1:2-4), for the testing of faith produces patience. The believer never passes through these deep waters alone. Romans 8:28 assures him that "all things work together for good to them that love God," and Psalm 34:19 consoles him: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all." Thus, far from being wasted, tribulation becomes in God's hands an instrument of maturity, hope, and closer communion with him.