In this world we live in we all exhibit different characteristics. We don’t look alike, we don’t act alike, we don’t dress alike. We have different tastes in food, in music, and in the books we read. We have dissimilar backgrounds, goals, and motivations. We have different philosophies, politics, and religions. Our weights vary, our heights vary, and so does the color of our skin.
But there is one thing we all have in common; we all know what it means to hurt. Suffering is a universal language. Tears are the same for Jews or Christians or Muslims; for white people, black people, or brown; for children, adults, or the elderly.
Since pain is such a pervasive problem, we need a potent prescription, and the Word of God dispenses that prescription with advice that tells us how we Christians can rejoice through suffering.
Peter tells us “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trials you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.” I Peter 4:12, 13
Paul tells us “Now if we are children, then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Romans 8:17, 18
James tells us “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kind, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” James 1:2, 3
We know the Word of God is the truth, but I know myself, and it is impossible for me to rejoice through suffering, and I am sure that would be true for most all of us.
However, the Word also teaches that the things that are impossible with man are possible with God. The Word of God further teaches us that “you died and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” Col 3:3, 4
The Word of God also says “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”
So there’s the answer to our dilemma, it’s His life rejoicing through our bodies.
LIFE LESSON: REJOICE THROUGH SUFFERING…(NOT I, BUT CHRIST)
Below is a link to another Life Lesson that supports the above, taken from an article in the Bill & Gloria Gaither Homecoming Magazine July/August 2013 edition. Please read it carefully, then rejoice in the Lord!
Thank you for your continued prayers and support. You are great partners in Christ.