Romans 5:3

And not only so, but we also rejoice in our tribulations: knowing that tribulation worketh stedfastness;

'not only so' -'this doesn't mean, of course, that we have only. hope in future joys' (Phi)

'we also rejoice' -the second object of joy is an unexpected one.

'A person who can only be happy while things are going along well (easy or comfortable) won't remain that way for long. Thank God that happiness (blessedness) doesn't depend on outward circumstances.' [Note: McGuiggan p. 163]

'tribulations' -it is one thing to submit to or endure tribulations without complaint, but it is another to find ground of glorying in the midst of them. (Robertson p. 356)

-2347. thlipsis thlip'-sis; from 2346; pressure (literally or figuratively): -afflicted(-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble.

'We speak of pain, poverty and deprivation as "curses" and the possession of things as "blessings" but that is much too simple.. blessing is that (and only that) which brings. person closer to God and enables him to better fulfill his role in life.' [Note: McGuiggan p. 163]

-Jesus and the apostles clearly spelled out such 'pressures' that will come upon those who are trying to please God. (Matthew 5:12; Matthew 10:28; John 15:18; John 16:33; Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12)

"knowing" -the Christian can rejoice in such trials, because the Christian is assured that such troubles endured with the proper attitude always work for one's best interest. There is no such thing as pain without purpose for the faithful Christian.

'It was poor Nietzsche who rightly said: "He who has. why to live for can bear almost any how."' [Note: McGuiggan p. 164]

"worketh" -'brings about' (NASV)

"stedfastness" -'patience, fortitude, perseverance, endurance'. It is. bearing up under, not simply. resignation. It is 'spiritual staying-power', an aggressive hanging-in under trial and making use of the circumstances.

'The saint exercising 'stedfastness' refuses to be. victim' [Note: McGuiggan p. 164]