For those already born of and those still being generated by the Holy Spirit, tribulations are extremely important to the development of the Christian faith. Were it not, God Himself would eliminate them from among His children.

What is tribulation?

Illnesses, diseases, financial or family problems, have nothing to do with tribulations.

Tribulations involve problems exclusively related to the Christian faith. Persecutions, injustice, humiliation, gossip, betrayal and slander from the brethren are some of the situations that directly affect faith.

The Holy Spirit has directed His children not to glorify only in the hope of salvation. But also, to glorify in the price to pay for this glory!

This means that if there is joy and delight in the assurance of the salvation of the soul, there must also be joy and delight in getting through the tribulations of faith! (Romans 5:1-2)

Many times, Christians sow what is worth nothing and reap rotten fruit. They later complain about their ‘heavy cross’.

It is the case of wrong marriages, prostitution, lies, slander and a series of fruits of the flesh. These all generates conflicts, sadness and pain. But this is not related to faith!

True tribulations always benefit those of faith and God allows them for our own good.

The Lord strongly emphasised the glory of those afflicted because of faith when He said:

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake…not because of a committed sin or injustice.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:10-12)

The glory of this tribulation is what produces perseverance, experience and hope. These are indispensable virtues for the maintenance of the Salvation of the soul.