Tribulation: a pressing, pressing together, pressure, oppression, affliction, tribulation, distress, straits.
Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;
4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. NKJV
Those who are committed to ascend in Love should expect pressure. This pressure may come from many different sources. Well-meaning family members or friends may try to sway you to their way of thinking. Bible teachers will present credible arguments for proceeding down a different path. Adversaries may be raised up to teach you about Loving your enemies. We are to persevere through the tests and trials, afflictions, and pressure that arrive at our doorstep by viewing them as opportunities of growth.
To persevere means to endure, bear bravely and calmly, so don’t be moved when you are tested. Instead, smile and embrace the opportunity to grow and ascend to a higher level of maturity. Listen to Our Heavenly Father’s voice as HE instructs you in handling the pressure. Do not be tossed to and fro by the trials but instead set your rudder as instructed by HIM, knowing that patience will have it perfect work and that each test and trial are designed to perfect and mature us in HIM. Set aside the old man’s call to return to the “flesh” as though the temporal could contain a solution. Only from Above is where true peace is found in the midst of the tribulations. Remember, it took a lot of pressure to form a diamond. You may be surprised at how much pressure you are really able to handle once you are no longer moved by it.