Suffering

November 30th – 1 Peter 2:20

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1 Peter 2:20

When bad things happen as a result of something we did, we understand the consequences that follow. But sometimes bad things happen when we’ve done everything right. And in those times instead of asking why, we need to accept that although not every challenge is earned, every challenge is an opportunity for spiritual growth. This calls for a unique form of endurance. One that perseveres in hope, even amid undeserved suffering. When we embrace hope in these moments, it becomes an act of profound trust. One that acknowledges God’s plan may transcend our immediate understanding. And that enduring with faith can lead to a deeper connection with His divine purpose. It’s an invitation to walk in the footsteps of Christ, who Himself endured unjust suffering. To find solace in the enduring hope that the Lord recognizes and honors such steadfast perseverance. And one He will wipe away every tear we cry, (Rev. 21:4), and replace our sorrow with everlasting joy!

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November 10th – Romans 8:18

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Romans 8:18

Jesus warned that while on this earth, His followers would experience rocky times. (2 Tim. 3:12) And there’s not a single one of us who hasn’t been touched by suffering or faced trials. But the apostle Paul also tells us that nothing, absolutely nothing we go through on earth can compare to what awaits us in heaven. The glorious treasures we will receive, including spending eternity with the Lord, encourages to endure the trials of today with the hope of a glorious tomorrow. And that hope becomes the fuel sustaining our endurance. For it reminds us that our current struggles are only a chapter in the larger story of redemption. Yet while it hurts to go through the storms of life, they are only temporary. God is in complete control, guiding and loving us along the way. And He promises that the trial will last only as long as He allows. In the meantime we will continue loving, obeying, and praising Him in good times and bad. Finding joy and confidence that a brighter, more glorious future is on the horizon.

 

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November 6th – 2 Corinthians 4:18

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2 Corinthians 4:18

No one likes to go through suffering. With their emotional and physical toll, trials can indeed be painful. Yet in the grand scheme of eternity, nothing we go through on earth can compare to the incomparable glory of heaven. The pain we endure while here is but a shadow in comparison to the eternal joy, peace, and fulfillment that await us in the presence of God. That’s why hope and endurance go hand in hand. They encourage us to shift our focus away from the challenges and adversities of life, recognizing that they are temporary. And instead, set our gaze on the eternal promises of God. This change in perspective empowers us to endure with patience and faith. Knowing that the difficulties we face are momentary in comparison to the lasting hope and glory that await us. Enduring trials is an opportunity to strengthen our hope by aligning our vision with the eternal truths and blessings of the Lord. Trusting Him to provide the endurance we need to overcome life’s obstacles.

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November 5th – Romans 5:3-5

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Romans 5:3-5

For Christians, hope is not wishful thinking but a robust, enduring virtue born from persevering through life’s trials. By lasting through the suffering and coming out the other side, our character is refined. And from this transformation, a resilient hope emerges. This hope is unshakable because it is rooted in the abundant love of God, which fills our hearts through the Holy Spirit. So rather  than seeing them as setbacks, we should view trials as opportunities for growth. A chance to develop a deep and enduring hope in God’s promises. Suffering comes for us all. Yet no matter what we face, we can embrace the challenge. Because every circumstance has the potential to shape us to to a better version of ourselves. And to strengthen our hope in God’s love and protection. It encourages us to glory in our sufferings. Because trusting in the process of endurance, leads to an ultimate outcome of hope that doesn’t disappoint. Because God never disappoints. And everyone of His promises are true.

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November 4th – James 1:12

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James 1:12

Society today puts great value in things. Always trying to, “keep up with the Joneses”, people strive for material wealth and riches. Christians too yearn for treasure. But ours is a perfect, eternal, imperishable inheritance. (1 Peter 1:4) A glorious one bestowed by God the Father to His children. All made possible through the blood of Jesus Christ. Many are the rewards that will be given in heaven, and one is the crown of life. An eternal crown given to all who persevered in their faith no matter what. Through suffering, testing, and trials, they endured, never giving up hope. Not counting the cost. We too, by enduring through challenges with faith and perseverance, can look forward to receiving the crown of life. This gives us hope, empowering us to withstand life’s tests, knowing that our endurance is a testament to our love for God and our unwavering faith in His promises. And one day, standing before His majestic, mighty throne, we’ll cast our crowns at His feet. Giving the Lord all of the glory and honor. (Rev. 4:10-11)

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August 25th – Colossians 2:1

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Colossians 2:1

“For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face.”

We live in a “me first” society. And when it comes to helping others, many chose to sit back and watch. Or worse yet, pull out their phone to record. Yet Paul tells us Christians aren’t to act this way. Just as he had a deep concern for the Colossians, we too are to have concern for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. To be the first to step up in times of trouble. In a world marked by division and distractions, Christians are called to be knit together in love, respect, and grace. To support one another’s faith journeys, and to offer a helping hand in times of doubt or struggle. Paul suffered greatly to share the saving message of Jesus Christ to all. Being willing to struggle for other believers stems from the principles of love, unity, and compassion that are central to the teachings of Christ. For no one struggled or suffered more for us than Jesus Christ. And as part of His glorious family, we are called to support and uplift one another, just as a family supports its members during challenging times.


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August 20th – Colossians 4:18

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Colossians 4:18

“Remember my chains. Grace be with you.”

I often think how wonderful it would have been to be an apostle. To actually walk, talk, and live with Jesus. But the life of an apostle wasn’t easy, comfortable, or physically profitable. And more than just a few of the letters Paul wrote were written from prison. So if there’s anyone who understood deeply about suffering for your faith, it’s Paul. He endured many hardships and near death experiences due to his commitment to spreading the gospel of Christ. So when he asks the Colossians to remember his chains, he’s reminding all of us the cost of being devoted to Jesus. And how the road of a Christian is anything but easy. Yet no matter what he faced, Paul let nothing stand between him and following his God given calling. And neither should we. We too need to be just as committed as Paul to fulfilling our mission. To have the boldness, dedication, and perseverance of an apostle. And despite adversity, let nothing stand between us and completing the job personally given to us by our Lord and Savior.

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August 19th – Colossians 1:22

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Colossians 1:22

“He has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him”

The unimaginable violence Jesus suffered is heartbreaking. Yet because of His great sacrifice, we can be reconciled to God. Covered by the blood of Christ, and clothed in His righteousness, we can be presented before our Father as holy and blameless in His sight. And although horrific, the violence of Jesus’ death is a powerful reminder of the gravity of sin. And the great cost required for redemption. His sacrificial act, marked by suffering and brutality, serves as the ultimate expression of God’s love and mercy. By willingly enduring this violent death, Jesus bore the weight of our sins. And He Himself took the punishment we deserved. Through His death, the separation between God and humanity was ended. And a path to reconciliation was forged. Jesus’ violent death emphasizes the great lengths God was willing to go to restore our relationship with Him. It shows the depths of His grace and the magnitude of His plan for salvation.

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May 12th – Isaiah 65:17

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Isaiah 65:17

When my Grandma was diagnosed with dementia, it was painful to watch as she tried to hold on to precious memories. Memories can be both a blessing and a curse. Some fill our hearts with joy while others bring tears to our eyes. One day God promises to create a new heaven and a new earth. And in this new reality, the painful experiences and memories of the past will no longer have any power over us. The memories that we cherish will still remain. But all things, including memories, that brought us pain and suffering will be no more. Instead we will dwell with the Lord forever in an eternity filled with joy, peace, and harmony. And our old way of thinking and behaving will be left behind. Because of His great love and mercy, God offers us a clean slate and a fresh start. One where past mistakes and wrongdoings can be forgotten and forgiven, allowing for a new future. A future that is free from the pains and sorrows of the past and filled with the blessings of His grace and love.

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April 17th – 2 Corinthians 4:17

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2 Corinthians 4:17

The apostle Paul and his fellow Christians suffered many hardships and difficulties in their ministry. They knew firsthand the cost of following Jesus and spreading the Good News. And although John acknowledges that trials can be painful to endure, he reminds us they only last but a moment. And so he councils us during times of difficulties to focus on the eternal perspective. For these troubles are temporary and are ultimately leading to a greater reward in heaven. Likewise, no matter what we suffer it’s minor compared to the eternal glory awaiting us. So as hard as it may be, Paul urges us to see our sufferings in light of the bigger picture. And to persevere through them knowing that they are not in vain. Most of all Paul wants us to trust that even in the midst of trials and hardships, we can find hope and comfort in the knowledge that God is working all things together for our good and for His glory.

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