Based on the previous verses (Romans 5:1,2) “this” in “And not only this” refers to “we exult in hope of the glory of God” for having peace with God because the believer is justified (declared innocent) by faith (in Jesus Christ and the atonement for sin He accomplished on the cross) and has been introduced to the grace of God. Yes, the believer exults( celebrates in triumph) in their tribulations (sufferings) because it brings about proven character and ultimately, hope, because the love of God has been poured in him through the Holy Spirit dwelling in him. I don’t pretend I comprehend all these because I don’t. The apostle Paul who wrote this definitely went through tribulations that I have never gone through and hopefully, never will. But praise God that I have the Holy Spirit dwelling in me, too, because I prayed to receive Him and I did. What a merciful God! So, I believe what this passage is saying is that I receive hope in my heart when I go through sufferings simply because I have the Holy Spirit giving me that hope. (Note: The believer can receive the Holy Spirit by asking God for Him in prayer. See Luke 11:9-13)
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Scripture quotation is from the New American Standard Bible, Bible App by YouVersion.com
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Art courtesy of YouVersion Bible app. I am using the Bible App by YouVersion.com for my daily devotion. Download it now for your mobile device. https://j794q.app.goo.gl/nd4yPrGj7Hbhy9Kk8
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