“And God is able to
make all grace abound to you” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
Although Jesus was perfectly obedient, God allowed His only
Son to suffer. Jesus suffered not only an excruciating physical death, but also
the hateful wrath and severe punishment for the sins of the entire world. He
endured all the pain, humiliation and abandonment of His friends as well as His
Father. It was all this that He endured for us so we could be free from sin and
spiritual death. Jesus set our example for the disciplined obedience of
Christian life, even if we may suffer and experience adversity along the way. Jesus
did so why? Because He loves us that much!
When we suffer we are likened to Christ. First Peter 4:12,
13 says, “Beloved, do not think it
strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange
thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s
sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with
exceeding joy.”
My prayer for us all:
Oh God, help us to understand sacrifice, and help us to endure our suffering.
We want to be like Christ but we feel so weak and vulnerable. Give us strength
and hope for all we will experience in this life. Allow us to know You are with
us no matter what we go through. Our trust is in Your Lord. Amen.
