Text: Romans 8.16-17
Being a follower of Christ doesn’t exempt us from hardship and suffering. While some Christians feel entitled to a life that’s problem and pain free, when we say “Yes” to God, suffering comes with it. “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” (Romans 8.16-17).
Suffering for early Christians was often persecution, and even death (this is on the rise in some parts of the world today). But for us, suffering like Christ is seen more in the struggles we wouldn’t have if we weren’t Christians: rejection from friends and family who don’t believe, ridicule in the workplace, and the conflicts and disappointments of trying to minister to others.
If you’ve been in, or are in, a time of suffering, take heart: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8.28). Today, as you lift up your hands to God, thank him for your inheritance of suffering which leads to glory. Memorize Romans 8.28 and rely on God’s promise to work out all things in your struggle for his good.
