Romans 5:4

experience The Gr. properly means "a proof, a test." So usually in N. T.: e.g. 2 Corinthians 8:2 (where E. V. "trial"), Romans 13:3 (where E. V. "proof"); Philippians 2:22 ("proof"). The word here cannot refer to the testing of the believer by his Master, for the next clause shews it is something in his own consciousness, producing hopethere. It is rather his own testing of himself;his discovery of what he can bear and do, through grace; promoting courage for future efforts, and steady hopes of final victory.

hope Of future grace and (perhaps mainly here) of the glory to follow. Each "test" of the power given enhances the confidencethat He who gives it will continue it till the course of "patience" ends in the eternal welcome.