Patience In Times of Suffering

"You are tried alone; alone you pass into the desert; alone you are sifted by the world." - Frederick W. Robertson

Suffering and hardship is something that we all have in common.  It comes in various degrees of intensity and can differ in duration. Everyone has experienced it at one time or another; perhaps even at this very moment for some.

So what can you and I do when suffering and hardship comes calling? The thought that pops into the mind's of most is, "If God really loves us, why does he allow suffering?" Explaining this problem is not an easy task. Fortunately we can turn to the Bible for help.

A couple of examples come to mind right away. The entire Book of Job is devoted to the difficulties suffering and hardship can present in our lives. Also, the Book of Genesis contains the story of Joseph who persevered under very distressing circumstances in his life.

Now, what can we do when the dark, uncertain times of suffering and/or hardship presents itself in our own lives? It may provide some comfort to know that no matter what, God has an ultimate purpose for our trials (2 Peter 3:9).

When speaking about suffering in our life we might attribute this to some type of pain, distress, loss, sorrow, loss, or inconvenience. As with many things that we journey through in the course of daily existence; we never know when it will occur.

There may be some things one can do to prepare themselves for it, or soften its effects, but there's no way to avoid it completely. We can't run from it, nor can we hide from it. When dealing with suffering and hardship, we must be patient and lean on our faith for strength (Matthew 24:13).

Jesus Christ exemplified this to the extreme when he patiently suffered the painful adversities, and atrocities which eventually led to his crucifixion on a cross for our sake, He knew that his Father was never far away. 1 Corinthians 10:13 reminds us that no matter what, God will always remain faithful to us, too.

Regarding our lives here, God's sovereign wisdom is the hand that guides everything around us. Therefore, it's imperative that we learn to place our trust in God unconditionally. When push comes to shove, that's the only sure thing we have to count on (Romans 8:28).

Scripture: 1 John 5:4; Psalm 129:2; Isaiah 43:2; Hebrews 12:11; Philippians 3:10

Prayer: Dear God, in suffering, grant me the patience and endurance I need to overcome it, and the wisdom and humility I need to accept it as part of your plan for me. Amen

May God bless you all!

Kasey