Dictionaries describe suffering as distress, hardship or pain. When something happens in life that brings on suffering, the consequences can be life changing. It might be the loss of a loved one, the displacement of where you lived because of war; suffering is never easy.
We suffer as a result of the failure in our relationship with God. Our collective sin took the world on a collision course with distress; sometimes through wrong choices. I often think God looks at our actions against one another with tears in His eyes. Suffering will completely end when we are fully reconciled with God in Heaven.
Having said all of that there is a wonderful promise in 1 Peter 5:10, ‘And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.’ (ESV)
Quote
When we suffer, we touch the sacrifice Jesus made for us.
Prayer
Lord help me when I’m in distress, help me feel Your presence when I suffer pain. Amen
Action Point
If you know anyone who is going through a difficult time, reach out to them and see if you can help, even if it just means listening to their pain.
Copyright notices
(ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
Use in other publications. You can use all of this devotional when including this credit. Copyright © Carl Brettle. Subscribe for free via www.faithlift.org