Times of Suffering

Times of Suffering by Jim and Elizabeth George

“I’m done. This is just too much. I can’t believe this is really God’s plan for my life!” This is not an uncommon confession among Christian women. But it is true: suffering is part of this life.

Every one of us will face times of trial and loss. Job’s lament is a testimony to the physical, moral, and spiritual suffering he experienced. But through his trials, Job experienced a reaffirmation of his faith and, in the end, saw his life and family restored and his possessions doubled.

Are you enduring a time of suffering? Let Jesus’s words in John 16:33 encourage your heart: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Jesus does not promise you an easy life when you choose to follow Him. But in times of suffering, you can experience His peace and know great joy.

Whenever you are disheartened, look to the Lord for your peace and joy. Rejoice in the truth that He has overcome the world and its brokenness, and look to the future glory He promises His suffering children. These are promises for you.

Peter also has a powerful and hopeful message for us as we suffer. He gives us three reasons why we can withstand anything that comes our way.

Reason 1: We can stand anything because of what we are looking forward to: our magnificent inheritance of life with God.

Reason 2: We can stand anything if we remember that every trial is a test…and trials make our faith stronger and more resilient.

Reason 3: We can stand anything because at the end of our lives, when we’re with Jesus Christ, we will receive our rewards from Him—His praise and glory and honor.

Regardless of past or current trials, remain joyous in the goodness of the Lord. It is in His strength that you can stand strong and persevere.

RESPOND:

Lord, You know my suffering right now, and You saw untold suffering during Your days on earth. But, You have overcome the world, and in Your strength I can persevere and overcome. Thank You that good cheer and great hope are available to me because You are my Lord. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

This beautiful printable is a reminder to trust in God at all times. Find more information about this and other printables here.

REFLECT:

How have I seen God’s faithfulness during times of suffering?

REMEMBER:

Each of us will experience times of trial and suffering, but God’s promises still remain true.


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Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


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