Suffer

Suffering is an inevitable aspect of life. If you haven’t suffered yet you one day will, it’s just a matter of time. It has recently hit me that so much of the New Testament talks about this topic of suffering but so many don’t realize that because we are taught not to. For those who have been life-time church-goers you know how the story usually goes; live for Jesus and your life will be all smiles. But inevitably suffering still comes.

The bible teaches us that we are to be prepared to suffer and that when suffering comes we are to suffer well, we are to suffer joyfully. Listen to what Jesus says: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11-12)

Jesus is teaching that we are blessed when we suffer on account of his name; we are blessed when others hate us and say wicked things about us. He says we are to be glad. You might ask, why be glad? Because, your reward in heaven is great! Elsewhere in the New Testament, Paul, tells us that we are to always be rejoicing, in all things we are to give thanks (Philippians 4:4-7). Paul wrote that while in prison.

So this suffering brings up the question; where is Jesus in all of this? I have never really had to face suffering. I have experienced death in the family only a few times. I remember that it was hard for a time but I was either really young or just not really close enough to the person to be greatly effected by it. However, I know that the day will come when suffering really hits me hard. Something will happen to someone who is dearly close to me. What will I do? What will you do?

You will only suffer well if Jesus is truly first in your life. If he isn’t it is likely that you will only become angry or bitter, you might even turn against God, even question His existence. But if Jesus is first then you understand the greater reward. You understand that this life is so short and that beyond it eternity awaits you. Is Jesus your satisfaction?

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  Preacher’s Post is the rotating weekly blog for Lighthouse pastors. It is here that you will read a Scriptural meditation from one of the guys and then respond with comments if you choose.