Suffering is all around us. We see tragedy on a daily basis. Suffering is part of our human condition, albeit part of life.
Personally speaking, an old back injury flared up about two months ago. I suffered with pain from a bulging disk that sent pain radiating down my leg. Sitting, standing and lying down were difficult. Thankfully a spinal injection alleviated the pain.
So what lessons can be gleaned from our pain and suffering? Is God still with us?
Yes. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us.
Pray
First we can cry out to God who always hears us. His answers may not come quickly enough, but His timing is always just right.
Second we can rely on others for prayer. Feelings of comfort and deep nurturing rise in my spirit in my vulnerable needy state. Then there is the added benefit of power in numbers when praying.
While writing Before You Depart: God’s Touch Before Eternity, I asked several Godly women to pray for words and wisdom needed to complete the project. Their faithfulness and encouragement brought me through some difficult times.
Sometimes I resist asking for prayer because my weakness and vulnerabilities become evident to the outside world. Simply put I join the human race on a journey with valleys of suffering and mountain peaks of praise.
Having others pray for me creates sweet fellowship and the reminder that during the journey through life we all suffer at one time or another. Asking for prayer and praying for others allows me to be part of the marvelous body of Christ.
The meaning of suffering may bring several thoughts to mind. Not pretending to know the deep meaning of suffering, I’m glad I don’t have to suffer alone. Friends bring comfort and Christ my Savior is always with me.
Scriptures for Today
“Give us help against the adversary,
For deliverance by man is in vain [a worthless hope].
[With God we will do valiantly,
For it is He who will trample down our enemies.” (Psalm 108:12-13 AMP).
“and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be death; there will no longer be sorrow and anguish, or crying, or pain; for the former order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:4 AMP).
Prayer for Today
Father, we know suffering is part of life. Help us to seek you in our time of need. Praying for all your goodness, healing and the comforting touch you provide. Thank you for the privilege of sharing our pain, grief and suffering with our brothers and sisters in the fellowship of your Precious Son. Bring us through our sufferings with stronger faith in your faithfulness. Touch all who are suffering now, physically, mentally or spiritually. Amen.
© 2020 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved
