Suffering is a part of following Jesus. I have experienced times that I would
describe as “suffering.” Why do we have
to suffer? What does it produce? Here is what I know...
1. Suffering
Perfects - we are refined by it and humbled by it. It reveals the areas of true belief and true
doubt in us. It shows us pride. It uncovers anger. It gives incredible opportunity to grow. (2
Corinthians 12:7-10)
2. Suffering gives
Power - when we are at our weakest, it is then that Jesus can be at His
strongest through us! When we suffer, we
realize how powerless we are apart from Jesus.
When we suffer, we can surrender like never before to His living power!
(2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
3. Suffering
allows Perseverance - life is a marathon, not a sprint. It is a long journey in the direction of
following Jesus. It is not always
easy. Suffering separates the true
followers of Jesus from the false. (1 Peter 1:7)
4. Suffering
reminds us of Promise - this life is not all that exists. Eternity is real. We have hope for tomorrow in what we cannot
see today. He never promised to keep us
from the valley of the shadow of death, but He did promise to walk with us
through it! This life will pass away.
Better and lasting things await us.
(James 5:7-11)
None of this makes suffering easy, but it does give
fresh eyes to it. May we see as Jesus
sees and live as He lived...that is what the world is waiting to see! Will it begin in you and me? I pray so!
Loving and Leading,
Jeff Powell
