The Glorious Products of Tribulations

"We glory in tribulations also… This being the hardest point, he sets himself to show
the grounds and reasons of it. How come we to glory in tribulations? Why, because
tribulations, by a chain of causes, greatly befriend hope, which he shows in the method of its
influence. 1. Tribulation worketh patience, not in and of itself, but the powerful grace of God
working in and with the tribulation. It proves, and by proving improves, patience, as parts
and gifts increase by exercise. It is not the efficient cause, but yields the occasion, as steel is
hardened by the fire…. That which worketh patience is matter of joy; for patience does us
more good than tribulations can do us hurt. Tribulation in itself worketh impatience; but, as
it is sanctified to the saints, it worketh patience. 2. Patience experience. It works an
experience of God, and the songs he gives in the night; the patient sufferers have the greatest
experience of the divine consolations, which abound as afflictions abound. It works an
experience of ourselves. It is by tribulation that we make an experiment of our own sincerity,
and therefore such tribulations are called trials…. He who, being thus tried, comes forth as
gold, will thereby be encouraged to hope." – Matthew Henry