Suffering

2 Corinthians 1: 3-7

“3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, 4 who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ. 6 If we are being afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation; if we are being consoled, it is for your consolation, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we are also suffering. 7 Our hope for you is unshaken; for we know that as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our consolation.”

People want to avoid suffering.  It is something we dread.  But, if we live long enough, we will all  know suffering of some kind.  Suffering is part of life.  

God is present in our suffering and is a great consolation to those who believe.  God’s presence strengthens us and enables us and gives us the endurance we need to persevere.

The result of our suffering is that we gain insight into the suffering of others and we are able to empathize with, comfort, and console those who are hurting.

“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)

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)