Embracing Joy in Suffering: A Glimpse of God’s Greater Work
"Humble yourselves…under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time" (1 Peter 5:6).
Suffering is a reality of the Christian life—uncomfortable, challenging, and often misunderstood. Yet, through the lens of grace, suffering takes on a new meaning. It’s not a meaningless burden to bear but a glorious invitation to witness God’s transformative work in and through us.
For me, suffering is no longer merely something to endure but an opportunity I now approach with an underlying sense of joy. This joy isn’t something I’ve produced myself; it flows from the deep fellowship I’ve found with my Savior, Lord, and life—Jesus Christ. While the discomfort of trials is undeniably real, so is the anticipation of witnessing how the Lord will reveal His goodness in my life and the lives of others. At times, this joy has brought a fleeting smile to my face in the midst of hardship—a reaction that may seem odd or even socially unacceptable. Yet, it’s a smile grounded in the unwavering certainty of His faithfulness.
Suffering as a Path to Joyful Growth
Trials have a way of stripping away our illusions of self-reliance. In those moments, the sufficiency of Christ becomes not just a concept but a lifeline. As F.W. Grant insightfully writes:
"The Cross of the Lord Jesus makes what is naturally bitter sweet to us…nothing brings hearts together like sharing a common lot of toil and sorrow."
The cross itself is the ultimate example of suffering turned to triumph. Jesus willingly humbled Himself, becoming obedient even to death (Philippians 2:5-8). His obedience wasn’t the end of the story—it led to eternal glory and victory. In the same way, our suffering becomes a canvas for God’s glory when we surrender to His purposes.
During these times, I find myself marveling at the depth of His work. It’s not about gritting my teeth through discomfort but about resting in the quiet assurance that He is working all things for His glory.
Scriptural Anchor
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9).
When trials come, they remind us to trust not in our strength but in the grace of Christ flowing through us. It’s here, in the tension between weakness and His power, that we see His glory revealed.
Abiding in God’s Eternal Facts
Ruth Paxson reminds us of the stability found in anchoring our faith in God’s eternal truths:
"Faith spreads itself out over affliction and sends its roots down into the rich soil of our Father’s great eternal Facts."
These “Facts” are the unshakable truths of who God is—unchanging, eternal, and steadfast:
God is Sovereign: He is in control, working all things together for good (Romans 8:28).
God is Faithful: He will never leave nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:8).
God is Love: His steadfast love anchors us even in the storm (Romans 5:8).
God is Sufficient: His grace is enough for every trial (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Instead of being overwhelmed by affliction, we are called to rest in these truths. When my own circumstances feel heavy, I find strength in returning to these “Facts.” They remind me that no trial is wasted; each is an opportunity to see His faithfulness unfold.
Scriptural Anchor
"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through Him the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God" (2 Corinthians 1:20).
God’s promises remind us that our trials have eternal significance, as He uses them to shape us into the image of Christ.
Casting Cares as a Joyful Act of Faith
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is to release my cares to God—not as an act of desperation but as an expression of trust. J.B. Stoney captures this beautifully:
"May you retire into the secret of your heart and wait on the Father, and think that His heart is so relieved of everything about you, that He sees you according to the Son at His right hand."
This perspective transforms how we view trials. God sees us through Christ’s finished work—complete, secure, and beloved. Casting our cares becomes an invitation to rest in His steadfast love.
Practical Exercise:
Spend time envisioning how the Father sees you—complete in Christ and deeply loved. Place your worries in His hands, trusting that He is both willing and able to carry them.
Living with Joy Amid Trials
J.N. Darby’s reflection resonates deeply with my journey:
"If I am abiding in my risen Lord, it will show itself. I shall not be afraid of changes around me…Another great evidence of my abiding in Him is quietness. I have my portion in Him above, and I walk on."
This quiet confidence is the hallmark of abiding in Christ. It’s not about suppressing emotions or denying the reality of pain. Instead, it’s about anchoring our lives in Him, knowing that He is constant even when life is not.
Scriptural Anchor
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing" (John 15:5).
Abiding in Him transforms trials into opportunities for growth, allowing His life to work in us and flow through us, bearing eternal fruit.
Encouragement for Today
Trials may challenge us, but they also reveal the depth of God’s work in our lives. They invite us to abide in Christ, trust in His sufficiency, and find joy in His purposes. Even in the most uncomfortable seasons, we can anticipate the beautiful ways He will work through our circumstances.
Let this truth encourage you: Your suffering is not wasted. It’s a sacred space where God draws you closer, reveals His love, and equips you to reflect the glory of His grace.
Closing Prayer of Praise
Lord, we praise You for the gift of abiding in You. Thank You for the joy of knowing that You work all things for Your glory and our good. May our trials become testimonies of Your grace, transforming us into the image of Christ. You alone are our refuge, strength, and joy. To You be the glory forever. Amen.