Really, LORD, are we to rejoice in our hard times? Romans 5:3 & 4 states: “…but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience [perseverance]; And patience, experience [character]; and experience, hope..” Yes, I want perseverance, character, and hope, but isn’t there another way?? Can’t You just slap these traits on us, bestow them on us when we are born again, and save the suffering? Apparently not! Just like Jesus had to go through His cross experience, we have to learn to deny ourselves and develop Godly traits through what we suffer. Soooo: “Lord, I submit to Your Ways which are higher and far better than mine, and I will rejoice in tribulation which makes me more like YOU!” I would rather have more of God and Jesus in eternity, than easy going here on Earth. I will turn every hard place into an opportunity to trust You more, by praising my way through!