Suffering
Finding Hope and Comfort in Christ
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Romans 8:18, KJV
Suffering is not exactly the most joyous topic to be writing about.
Thankfully, it is not a complicated subject to understand, so I’ll keep it short.
As devoted Christians, we are to expect to go through suffering from time to time.
Just read the Bible for examples, and tell me who exactly didn’t suffer in any way out of the characters in the Bible?
Think of the story of Joseph, for example.
Yes, he ends up in a position of great authority, but he didn’t get there without going through some pain first.
The suffering we go through as Christians during our temporary life here on earth is nothing compared to the joy and peace we get to experience in the new heaven and the new earth.
Our suffering does serve a purpose.
It is to get us ready for what is to come.
And to perfect our character.
This is one way God uses those who have gone through trials and tribulations:
“3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
2 Corinthians 1:3–4, KJV
Those who have gone through much, know much.
And they know how it feels to be going through these painful experiences.
If they’ve done so as a Christian, the Holy Spirit has been there to comfort them.
And as a result, they’ll be able to comfort those who are going through something similar they’ve experienced.
Life is not always easy.
But it doesn’t have to be.
Pain is a magnificent teacher.
And it most certainly serves its purpose in getting us closer to God.
Next time you’re going through hard times, praise the Lord.
You are being tried as silver and gold; the end result will be a better version of you.
I hope you’ve been blessed by today’s message.
May you have a wonderful rest of your day.
Reflection:
How does suffering draw us closer to Christ?
How can your suffering be used to comfort others?
Prayer Suggestion:
“Father, when I walk through seasons of pain, help me to trust in Your greater plan. Teach me to see suffering as a way to grow closer to Jesus and to share Your comfort with others. Give me strength and peace, I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.”