“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.”
Philippians 1:29
Not only is it no accident that we face suffering, but also it is a gift. That’s what the apostle Paul means when he says it has been granted (or gifted) to you to suffer for Jesus’ sake.
We have grown used to the familiar things that make hard times more bearable: distractions, diversions, or ways to avoid looking our suffering in the eye. For example, people may not want to ever speak about a loved one who has died, thinking the silence will make the hurt go away. Others try to block their troubles with substances the world tells them will make it better.
It seems we’re not used to facing sorrow and scorn at the same time. But we know someone who is: Jesus! There was no pity in the eyes of the crowd for our bleeding Friend. There was taunting, jeering, and mockery. God gifts us belief in this suffering Savior that we might live. And then He gifts us suffering for His sake that we might know what it means to truly live.
Don’t reject this gift. Rather, pray with patience (even tearfully), “Not my will, but yours be done.”
We have grown used to the familiar things that make hard times more bearable: distractions, diversions, or ways to avoid looking our suffering in the eye. For example, people may not want to ever speak about a loved one who has died, thinking the silence will make the hurt go away. Others try to block their troubles with substances the world tells them will make it better.
It seems we’re not used to facing sorrow and scorn at the same time. But we know someone who is: Jesus! There was no pity in the eyes of the crowd for our bleeding Friend. There was taunting, jeering, and mockery. God gifts us belief in this suffering Savior that we might live. And then He gifts us suffering for His sake that we might know what it means to truly live.
Don’t reject this gift. Rather, pray with patience (even tearfully), “Not my will, but yours be done.”
Scripture Focus
Philippians 1
Insight
Father, teach me to say, “Thank You”—especially for the gifts I don’t want. Thank You for Jesus. Amen
Bible In A Year
- 1 Samuel 5-6
- Psalm 122
- 1 Corinthians 16
