What does it mean that tribulation produces perseverance (Romans 5:3)?

Romans 5:3 says, “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance” (NKJV). The word for “tribulations” here is the Greek word thlipsesin and means “affliction” or “distressing circumstances.” It’s sometimes translated as “sufferings,” as seen in the ESV, NET, and NIV. The New Testament typically uses forms of this word to refer to the hardships believers experience as they journey through life.

In the larger context of this verse, Paul speaks to the triumphs we have as those who have placed their faith in Jesus. In the verses prior, he proclaims that our faith in Christ allows us to have peace with God—we can stand confidently in His presence and “boast in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:2). But then Paul shifts gears and declares in Romans 5:3 that we can also boast in our tribulations and sufferings, a theme he also mentions in other letters (1 Corinthians 11:16–33; Philippians 4:10–13).

After declaring that we can have peace with God no matter the circumstances (Romans 5:1), Paul lists character traits in sequential order that are produced in a believer persevering through tribulation: “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3–4). By enduring difficult circumstances over time, and by trusting God, we will develop a more robust character and a more confident hope. This “hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:5). Because God has saved us and cares for us as His children, we can trust Him even when the circumstances are difficult.

Other passages in the New Testament also speak to the character development created in us as we trust God with our difficult circumstances. James 1:2–4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Hebrews 10:36 says, “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Paul himself learned to operate in distress: “I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Peter encouraged those who persevered in tribulation: “There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while” (1 Peter 1:6, NLT). And Jesus taught us to rejoice and be glad when we are persecuted, because our reward is in heaven (Matthew 5:11–12).

So, when Paul says that tribulation produces perseverance, he means that difficult circumstances can strengthen a believer’s faith and trust in God. We can trust the Lord with difficult circumstances because He is greater than those circumstances and works them for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).