This week's Scripture Song is 2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT:
"He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
We all suffer at some point in our lives. Although the types and levels vary, it's something we all must face.
Are you just suffering to suffer? Did you know that your suffering can actually serve you and those around you?
As crazy as it may sound, Instead of wallowing in self-pity and a victim mentality, we can actually find joy in our suffering. It makes me think of this scripture in James: "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”James 1:2-4 NKJV
Our sufferings strengthen our faith, increase our patience, and improve our character, but they also give us the capacity to comfort others.
Although it's never fun, there is immense purpose in our suffering. When we suffer, we gain more empathy, compassion, and understanding for those who are going through the same things we have already walked through. And as believers who have benefitted from the Lord's comfort, we too can comfort others in their affliction.
But in order to comfort others, we ourselves must lean into God's comfort when we experience trials in this life. Being in His presence and in His word is where we find it, for in His presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11) and His word gives us life (Psalm 119:50 & Proverbs 3:1).
I encourage you today... No matter what you're going through, try to change your perspective. Think of all the people you can now minister to because of the suffering you've experienced. We all need each other. God did not want man to be alone. Remember that what you face is not just about you. But God has an incredible way of helping you and others in the same process.
Love your passion about the Word. Keep sharing that good News!