Sometime during the recent AFLC conference, I wrote this quote down -- I can't remember in what context it was given, I just know that I liked it and maybe you will, too.
'When it is all over you will not regret having suffered; rather you will regret having suffered so little, and suffered that little so badly.'
--St. Sebastian Valfre
In our country, and our society, we know very little about suffering and we certainly avoid it in any way we can (I'm no exception.). Yet the Bible tells us that in this world we will suffer. (See John 16:33) Not only that, the apostle Paul tells us:
"Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope" (Romans 5:3-4).
Suffering can seem pointless, but often it isn't. Our suffering may lead to a hope that is anchored in Christ, instead of our own strength. If we bear our suffering patiently, asking God to reveal His will, we may reap great benefits.
Next time you are suffering, don't ask why you are suffering. Instead ask God, "what can I learn?" or "how can I use this painful experience?" You may be surprised at the answer.
For more posts about suffering see:
Suffer Strong by Katherine & Jay Wolf–Book Review
United with Christ in Death and Resurrection
Behold the Man!
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