Power In Suffering

We don't like it!

We try to avoid it!

Actually, the thought of suffering brings terror to our hearts!!

But, is that biblical?

7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited.

8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me.

9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. - 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

These verses say, there is power from the Lord gained through suffering! Why? To keep us aware that our weakness is made perfect through His grace. That's so powerful to hold onto as you age or as you walk through a crisis. As our body begins its journey to death, then every-lasting life with Jesus for those who trust Him for salvation, we comfort each other with His words!!

We all know that the minute trouble, illness, disaster or a host of other calamities hit, we call on God.

Even the ones who ignore His grace, cry out to Him.

So, even deep in our souls, we know that He is able!!!

28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. 

29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 

30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; 

31 but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.  - Isaiah 40:28-31

so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. - 1 Corinthians 2:5

2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. 

3 For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Cush and Seba in exchange for you.  - Isaiah 43:2-3

As Christ followers, we know Satan is defeated and Christ is King!!

Let us cling to that knowledge in a trials!!!