Suffering and the Glory of God

God wants to prepare you to suffer with faith, hope and joy.

Three Categories of People

Those going through a trial. Those coming out of a trial. Those who will soon find themselves in a trial.

Suffering is simply the cost of discipleship.

And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.Luke 9:23

Deny yourself.

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.Romans 13:14

Take up your cross.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.Galatians 2:20

Follow Jesus.

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.John 15:18-19

Suffering is simply part of the Christian life.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:1 Peter 4:12

Suffering is our spiritual strength and conditioning.

Suffering builds steadfast endurance.

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope:Romans 5:3-4

Suffering prepares you for the long haul.

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.James 1:2-4

Suffering is connected with glory.

While we are unsure what the coming glory will be, we know that it will be revealed in us and it will be amazing.

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;2 Corinthians 4:17

Our suffering in this life is light compared to the weight of the coming glory.

But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.1 Peter 4:13

How to Fail in Your Trial

Be caught off guard. Find reason to complain. Question your faith and become less committed. Question God’s faithfulness and goodness. Look for the nearest exit or opportunity to quit.

How to Win in Your Trial

Be prepared. Find reason to praise. Lean into your faith and become more committed. Recognize God’s faithfulness and goodness. Look for God’s grace to persevere and endure.