Suffering is an intrinsic part of the life of a true follower of Jesus Christ. As a matter of fact, it is an identifying proof of Sonship when we become humbled and more like Him through suffering. We will even praise the Lord through the hardest of times. This is because His Spirit is doing work deep within our hearts and we know it.
The Lord Himself suffered and sacrificed for you and said that those who love Him will obey, suffer, and sacrifice for His sake as well. We must endure suffering so that He may break us down to allow Him to then bind us up again and heal us.
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
You also will be tempted, attacked, persecuted, and slandered by the workers of evil, by those who execute the schemes of the devil. Even by those who think they are obeying God’s command. But they will not get very far before the truth comes out. What they have done will only turn against them. As David said, “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.” As Jesus said, “They will reap what they sow.”
Though in the middle of your suffering, it will be extremely hard and painful. It is all for your benefit. For your good. Keep going, keep trusting Jesus, and keep doing what is good and approved by God. He will bring you through the dark valley and meet you on the other side. You will look ahead and see the Son rising, shining down upon a good and faithful servant, who is worthy to be called His brother.
The Lord rewards and honors those who endure His sufferings. He restores, strengthens, and encourages His children and guilds them around the pitfalls of the devil. He has promised to do it and nothing can sway Him from following through.
Stand firm, keep your armor tight, endure, be of good courage, and increase your faith in Him. The Lord is on your side and He will fight for you. Keep your trust and faith in the Lord without doubt or wavering. He has already overcome and set your destination in stone. So believe in Him by faith. He will guide you in the right direction.
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To Him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:6-11
The Soul Sower 