Read the books of Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians and Philemon. Focus particularly on the following verses: Philippians 1:12-20, 29-30; Colossians 1:29; Acts 14:22
Jesus himself said, “In the world you have tribulation…” (John 16:33). Suffering is to be expected in the fallen world we live in. No one enjoys adversity, trials or tribulation. We will do anything we can to avoid putting ourselves in situations that we know can cause us grief. Some parts of this world take it for granted that people have a right to safety, comfort and convenience. The Scriptures tell us that those who follow Christ ought to expect adversity.
The Bible regards suffering as normal. We live in a fallen world (Romans 8:18-22) and as a result, things like disease, natural disasters, even death happens to everyone – the just and the unjust. Followers of Jesus Christ should expect that as the world treated Him so we would be treated (John 15:20). The followers of Jesus experienced suffering for his sake (Acts 8:1, Galatians 3:4, Philippians 1:29, 1 Thessalonians 2:14; 1 Peter 4:12).
The Apostle Paul went through horrible suffering and persecution even to the point of death (2 Corinthians 11:23-29). He spoke often and was explicit in saying this was to be expected by everyone who follows Christ (2 Timothy 3:12). Paul is not alone speaking about this relationship. James also says, ““Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials” (James 1:2). As followers of Jesus, we don’t rejoice in trials because we enjoy discomfort and pain, but because we delight in being united with Him as the Holy Spirit works in us what is well pleasing in His sight and all to the glory of God.
- What are your thoughts about the relationship between faith and suffering?
- How does keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-2
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- Can you think of a time that you have suffered for the sake of the gospel? How did that suffering shape who you are now?
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