Suffering Is About Knowing Jesus Greater

 What or how does one learn to embrace Suffering? What does it mean to suffer? The biblical definition is expressed in countless biblical accounts of people like us today. The Biblical narrative cites several scriptures by which the believer can draw an understanding and subsequent strength. 

Listed below are some scriptures chosen to help you: 

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin (1 Peter 4:1). For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (2 Corinthians 4:17). Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church (Colossians 1:24). When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze (Isaiah 43:2).

Are there any lessons one can learn through Suffering? 

Jesus sets the example of Suffering and its importance to understanding for Christian believers. Jesus Christ's calling by God as our Great High Priest, above all other Priests, sets the truths about suffering in motion. The Great High Priest duly anointed as both human and divine and "cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was tempted like we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:14- 15). 

Furthermore, His humanity is essential to His identification with those He represents (2:17), and His deity is vital to transmitting His power and conveying His righteousness for the believer's forgiveness. Jesus has identified with us through our struggles and temptations. One thing that sets Jesus apart is that in His identification with us, He remained without the tarnish of sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). These truths should encourage us to gain a better perspective of Jesus's sharing of human experiences, which enables Him to "have compassion on the ignorant and on them that are out of the way" (Hebrews 5:2). 

Words expressed in Randy Alcorn's article tell the story of Joni Eareckson Tada, who has lived for forty years as a quadriplegic in a wheelchair, contemplates her journey in her new book, Songs of Suffering: 25 Hymns and Devotions for Weary Souls, she says, "I've learned that suffering is messier than I once thought" and that it is about pressing us up against Jesus. It's not so much about us; it's about how I can hear His heartbeat and identify with Him in His sufferings." And "My paralysis is about knowing Jesus better." 

Alcorn's article also references C. S. Lewis's famous quote: "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world." 

The Bible admonishes believers that "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much" (Luke 16:10). We must hold fast to our confession of the truth so when the hard times come, we will be able to withstand the rigors of its mighty hand. Be diligent in your profession of faith in God so that you can fight the struggles of life. 

I leave with this truth: Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him (James 1:12)

Blessed Beauty To You,

Minister Sylvia Joyner