Romans 5:3-5 NKJV “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

It’s easy to see those who oppose us—our enemies, our critics, our obstacles—as threats to our progress. We often pray for God to remove them, to silence them, or to vindicate us before them. But what if the very people you call “enemies” are the ones God is using to bring you into your purpose?

In Romans 5, Paul makes a bold and seemingly paradoxical statement: “We glory in tribulations…” Why? Because tribulation is not the end—it’s the process. It’s the pressure that pushes us toward perseverance. And in the fires of perseverance, our character is forged. And from godly character comes unshakable hope.

Now think about the people and pressures in your life who have tried to block your progress. The ones who talked behind your back. The ones who tried to sabotage your success. The ones who rejected you, mocked your dream, or caused you to suffer. These are not just enemies—they are tools in the hand of a sovereign God.

Joseph had brothers who hated him, sold him into slavery, and thought they had buried his destiny. But those enemies were the very path God used to elevate him to the palace. David had Saul, who relentlessly hunted him down. But Saul’s pursuit drove David into deeper intimacy with God and prepared him for kingship. Even Jesus had Judas, who betrayed Him—not to destroy Him, but to position Him for resurrection glory.

Your enemies are not always sent to end you. Sometimes, they are allowed to expose what needs to be strengthened in you—your endurance, your faith, your trust in God’s promises. They provoke growth, they produce oil, and they reveal who God is in you.

So today, don’t just endure your enemies—thank God for them. Rejoice in the tribulations. For the very things designed to stop you are the ones God is using to shape you. And “hope does not disappoint,” because God’s love is being poured out in your heart. He is with you in the pressure, and He is using all of it to bring you to your fulfillment.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to see my enemies and my struggles not as barriers but as bridges. Use every opposition to draw me closer to You and to refine me for the purpose You’ve designed. Thank You that no enemy can stop what You have ordained. In Jesus’ name, Amen.