Suffering Well

There is a part of this life of faith that we don't like to talk about. Paul called it "...the fellowship of his sufferings." Most of us want to function in the power of his resurrection, which is the first part of that verse, but we repel every form of suffering. There was no resurrection for Jesus without the suffering of the cross. There will be no knowledge of him in resurrection power apart from our suffering some things. We fight the good fight of faith by believing for the very best from God. We also fight the fight of faith by enduring and overcoming various forms of suffering. We have to know during our sufferings that God is love. We have to know in those times that God is working all things together for our good. We have to trust Him for the help we need to keep our attitudes in check. We have to have enough faith to wait on Him until the change comes. We cannot allow suffering to steal portions of our redemption blessing package. We can remain in love, joy and peace even while we are long-suffering. All these things are part of the spiritual fruit cluster that we have. They can operate simultaneously if we do not slump into despair. Faith in God helps us to suffer well. Have a great day enduring whatever you must.