Thoughts on Suffering

Acts 14:21-22, "And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, 'We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.'"

Paul and Barnabas returned to visit the believers in all the cities where they had recently been threatened and physically attacked. They understood the meaning of tribulation and received it as a necessary plight of their Christian experience. Their calling from God was to encourage the new believers throughout the region. On their first trip, they endured physical violence, and now they faced a second tour of the same area.

I Peter 4:12-14a, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you."

The Lie that causes many Christians to fall away: "I Shouldn't Have to Suffer."

Many women dream of living a trouble-free, serene life void of contentions and conflict. What a wonderful picture! One day, for Christians, this dream will come true -- but not this side of heaven. Meanwhile, until that time, we live in a world that is not comparable to paradise, and we are surrounded by people who are not angel-like. Now what?

The answer is to draw near to your Heavenly Father, the One Who guides you, nurtures you, and loves you. He is with you in the suffering, teaching and instructing you how to endure, how to be patient, and how to cry out for deliverance. I Peter 5:10, "But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you."

Heavenly Father, thank You that I never suffer alone. You understand my weakness and stand ready to walk along side of me, comfort me, and rejoice with me as I rejoice in You! Thank You for counting me worthy. I love You. Amen.

Love, Karen