Joy Amidst Sufferings

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials - James 1:2.

                     We need to be joyful in midst of sufferings as they are nothing compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us - Romans 8:18. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison - 2 Corinthians 4:17.

            Paul, the servant of Christ was joyful in midst of His sufferings. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches - 2 Corinthians 12:23-28. I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation - 2 Corinthians 7:4.

                Let us be joyful in all our sufferings as they are nothing compared to the eternal glory. Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer - Romans 12:12. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! - Philippians 4:4. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you - 1 Peter 5:10. And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; It shall rejoice in His salvation - Psalm 35:9.                                                              

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Let us be joyful in sufferings. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.