Do Christians Suffer?

Steven’s Scribbles
“Do Christians Suffer?” 
James 1:2-4

    Last week I wrote about how we are blessed when we obey God’s word. Unfortunately, when some speak on this topic, they don’t talk about the suffering that Christians endure. Being a Christian does not shield you from suffering. You will still face trials, troubles, and tribulation. Jesus promised that a certain amount of suffering would follow those who wish to obey Him (Matt. 16:24-27). But here is the thing about the human experience; non-christians suffer too. There is no way to escape suffering. So why be a Christian? We are promised a way to deal with the suffering. We are promised there is something on the other side of the suffering of life. After encouraging Christians to resist the devil, Peter says, “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you” (1 Peter 5:10). We are told that persisting through temptations will make us “perfect and complete” (James 1:4). We are promised that there is no temptation that will overtake our free will. On the contrary the Lord will provide the way of escape from the temptation (1 Cor. 10:13). “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Why be a Christian if I won’t be protected from suffering? You are going to suffer loss, tragedy, trails, troubles, and many other things in your life. At least with Christ, you have a way to endure. I love you all!


In His service,
Steven Hugley