We live in a society that is possibly the worst in human history for preparing people to endure suffering, trials, and hardships well. We live in a secular world that says this life is all there is. If you lose love, happiness, and money, there is no consolation, and all there is this world. And, even if we are Christ followers and believe the Bible, we are also a part of our culture. You can’t separate yourself from it. I heard this example: don’t ask a fish about water because the fish will ask, “What’s water?” It just surrounds them, and it’s all they know. We are soaked in society, and our culture says if you face any suffering, get away from it as quickly as possible. Our culture constantly tells us that we are supposed to be happy—above all things is your happiness. Additionally, we’re told to get away from anything or anyone threatening our happiness and that we’re the only ones that matter. As a result, this culture does not prepare us for trials and suffering.

“Suffer well in light of what awaits you and what does not await you…because of Jesus.”

But there is a difference between pain and suffering that we all experience because we live in a broken world. Life happens, and it’s hard at times, and we long for Jesus’ return to make everything right. In our moments of suffering and persecution, many of us wrestle with three prominent questions: 

1. Where are you, God?
2. Are you aware of what I’m walking through?
3. What are you going to do about it?

So how do you and I suffer well? Now or in the future? Faith over fear. Faith over fear because God is with you in the midst of your suffering. Faith over fear because he knows of your suffering. Faith over fear in the One who has promised us the crown of life instead of the lake of fire. Faith over fear because of the unbelievable and merciful exchange where Jesus died that we might live, and he suffered so that we would never know eternal separation from Him. So, what are the answers to these three questions? Allow Jesus himself to reply.

1. Where are you, God?
   • I am the first and last, and I am with you right now.
2. Are you aware of what I’m walking through? 
   • I know. I’m here. I know (Revelation 2:9).
3. What are you going to do about it?
   • Encourage you not to be afraid and to be faithful (Revelation 2:10).

*We are a church located in Greenville, South Carolina. Our vision is to see God transform us into a community of grace passionately pursuing life and mission with Jesus.*

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Written by Jason Malone