During these weeks leading up to Easter, sermons, scripture-based movies, and church group discussions tend to make us think more about what Jesus suffered so we could have the joy of forgiveness and the assurance of ETERNAL LIFE with God. Isaiah 53:5 says, “But because of our sins he was wounded, beaten because of the evil we did. We are healed by the punishment he suffered, made whole by the blows he received.”
Jesus endured unimaginable humiliation, pain and distress that led to death, knowing that the result would be the greatest blessing we could ever receive.
In this life, we, too, endure suffering—though rarely to the point of death. But thankfully, sometimes, even our suffering can have an upside and can bring about blessing. Have you ever experienced that kind of suffering—suffering that produced blessing? When and how did Jesus help you through the pain, distress, and hardship?
In May of 2015 I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. I underwent major surgery, followed by four months of chemotherapy. It was a scary, exhausting, painful, distressing time in my life, but the end result was total healing! Cancer free—for over seven years now! It was suffering that resulted in blessing and LIFE!
Additionally, the positive outcome wasn’t the only blessing I received during that time. Jesus helped me through it all. He blessed me with a loving, helpful, attentive husband, understanding family, encouraging cards, gifts, and meals from friends and church acquaintances, special accommodations at work, benefits from agencies who help cancer patients, dedicated, caring nurses, and friendly, brilliant doctors. Yes, it was a time of suffering but it was also a time of blessing.
Maybe you are suffering right now. My heart and prayers go out to you. It is a difficult, challenging, and sometimes lonely time in life. But know this—you are not alone! Others have walked the same path. You are surrounded by friends, family, doctors, agencies, therapists, neighbors, and strangers who care and will help you if you let them know. And best of all, Jesus is with you. He promised He would be. (Matthew 28:20) His presence can give you strength, courage, and endurance!
Suffering can result in blessing! Be encouraged!
