In a recent post, I described love as something that “suffers long.”
In another article, I wrote that it’s possible to find joy during terrible circumstances. But what about when you don’t feel like rejoicing, or the suffering doesn’t seem worth it?
What then?
Is God still there? Does He hear your tiny human voice among the chaos of people clamoring to be heard?
Is Suffering Worth It?
The pain can be physical, mental, or spiritual, yet suffering always hurts. So what makes the hard stuff worth it? Why should you put up with people tearing you down again and again? Why fight an illness? Why bother arguing with the voices in your head? Does any of life matter?
Since these are big questions and God already gave us the answers in His Word, let’s head there.
You are Made in the Image of God
Genesis 1:27 shows that God created mankind in His image. This is amazing because humans were the only creatures made like this. We’re special. Set apart. Loved (John 3:16).
You are Called to be a Living Sacrifice
I hope you’ll find Romans 12:1–2 in your Bible, where Paul requests that the Romans present themselves as living sacrifices to God so other people would see Him (Matthew 5:14). It’s a call to set aside our agendas and shine for Him alone.
Or take Hebrews 12:1, a verse that tells us to run the race set out for us—a path lit up by the Word of God (Psalm 119:105).
It’s Okay to Suffer
It’s okay to feel disconnected sometimes. It’s okay to mourn for a season (Ecclesiastes 3:4). And don’t ever think you’re the only Christian with worries, sleepless nights, or sadness. Thankfully, we are not alone in our pain.
For example, the prophet Elijah wished to die (1 Kings 19:4). David hid from his worldly enemies, clinging only to God (Psalm 73:26). Jonah ran from the Lord (Jonah 1:1–3). Even Jesus cried (John 11:35–36).
But we aren’t made to dwell on these feelings. We can still find joy and comfort in God’s presence—just like these people did. Elijah found a new desire to live (1 Kings 19:8). David kept praising in the tough seasons (1 Chronicles 29:10). Jonah returned to God (Jonah 3:1–3). For Jesus, a miracle happened (John 11:43–44).
There is a Purpose
I believe that for every pain, there’s a purpose.
Do I know the plan? Um, nope. Not at all.
Does God? Yes! Of course He does. And He’s using your life to show you or other people what life is like with Him.
Do you notice a common thread between Elijah, David, and Jonah?
They all trusted God. Yep, your pain doesn’t end just because you’re His child. Sometimes, it multiplies.
Did you know that Job, Paul, and Esther suffered because of their faith in God? That’s right—Job lost his family, possessions, and health as a test. Paul went to prison because he wanted everyone to know about his Savior. And Esther agonized over whether or not she was worthy.
But here’s the catch.
Job said, “I know that You can do everything.” (Job 42:2)
Paul wrote, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. . .” (2 Corinthians 1:3)
Esther decided God’s plan was better than her life.
Elijah stayed steadfast.
David sang praises to God over and over again. Just check out Psalm 109:30.
So guess what? These are people who had some pretty terrible days. And they still thought suffering—with the right purpose—was worth it all (2 Corinthians 4:8–9, Acts 14:22).
So what about you? Do you believe the suffering is worth it, even though it hurts?
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