The Blessing of Suffering

“And we know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, those called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

The Christian life sometimes seems like a paradox. Love your enemies, do good to those who mistreat you, pray for those who persecute you. In our human nature, we usually want to do the opposite; Yet God has called us to do it regardless.

Many times, we want to be Christ-like, to be loving, joyful, peaceful. We forget that the way of Christ wasn’t an easy one. Through the Cross, salvation came to man.

God tells us that His strength is made perfect in weakness.

We want to be like gold, without going through the fire.

“But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” Job 23:10

It’s not easy, it’s not always going to feel great, but in the end of it all, the trials of this life are not compared to the glory that will be revealed in us if we decide to run the good race of the faith, no matter what obstacles may be there.

And He promises to be with us every step of the way.

“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Isaiah 43:2