"And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance..." (Rom. 5:3)

In the pictures of the ancient Roman method of threshing grain, one man is always seen stirring up the sheaves while another rides over them in a crude cart equipped with rollers instead of wheels. Rough bits of iron were attached to these cylinders to help separate the husks from the grain. This simple cart was called a "tribulum" from which we get our word "tribulation."

When great afflictions come, we often think of ourselves as being torn to pieces under the cruel pressures of adverse circumstances. Remember, no thresher ever used his tribulum for the mere purpose of tearing up the sheaves but to disclose the precious grain. Likewise, God tries the righteous, but He never puts them under the pressure of sorrow and disappointment needlessly.

Let us be patience in tribulation.