The Realities of Suffering
Life in this world is marked by two unshakable realities: we will suffer, and Jesus will return. This past Sunday, we continued in our series on the book of James, “Who Am I Becoming?“, with the question: Is God safe? Throughout the Psalms, God is described as our refuge and fortress, yet our experiences often make us question whether we are truly safe with Him. Like getting into a car expecting a smooth ride, we may find ourselves jarred by betrayal, loss, or the relentless grind of daily life. The expectation of comfort is often shattered, leaving us to wonder about God’s goodness and safety. Yet, Scripture does not shy away from suffering; it acknowledges it as a universal part of the human experience, even for those who follow Jesus.
Key Takeaways
– Suffering Is Inevitable, But Not Meaningless
Life in a broken world guarantees suffering, regardless of our faith or efforts to avoid it. Accepting this reality is not resignation, but the first step toward spiritual maturity. When we stop resisting or denying our pain, we create space for God to meet us in it and begin the work of transformation. Our “stained uniforms” are not marks of failure, but reminders that we are all playing on the same field of brokenness.
– The Power of an Eternal Perspective
Fixing our eyes on the promise of Christ’s return radically changes how we endure trials. The weight of suffering, though real and heavy, is temporary when compared to the glory of eternity. Fighting for an eternal perspective is an active, daily discipline—one that lifts us above the mist and vapor of this life and anchors us in hope. This perspective does not erase pain, but it gives us the strength to persevere with purpose.
– Perseverance Is Formed in the Tension Between Realities
The space between suffering and Christ’s return is where our faith is tested and refined. It is here that we learn to stand firm, not by our own strength, but by continually returning to God, as Job did, even when answers are absent. The prophets and Job show us that perseverance is not about stoic endurance, but about honest engagement with God and relentless hope in His character.
– Jesus Models Honest Suffering and Trust
In Gethsemane, Jesus did not minimize His anguish or hide it from His friends. He faced suffering head-on, brought His pain to the Father, and ultimately surrendered to God’s will. This is the pattern for us: to be honest about our struggles, to invite others in, and to keep our eyes fixed on the Father’s eternal purposes, even when the way is dark.
– The Holy Spirit Empowers Our Perseverance
We are not called to endure suffering alone or in our own strength. The Holy Spirit is given to us as our helper, intercessor, and comforter, fighting with us and for us as we walk through trials. True perseverance and transformation into Christlikeness are only possible as we rely on the Spirit’s power, not our own resolve.
Reflection Questions
- Jamey said, “When we stop resisting or denying our pain, we create space for God to meet us in it and begin the work of transformation.” Is there a specific area of pain or disappointment in your life that you tend to avoid or minimize? What would it look like to invite God into that space this week?
- The book of James urges believers to “be patient and stand firm” because “the Lord’s coming is near.” What is one practical way you can remind yourself of Jesus’ return when you feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges?
- Jamey describes fighting for an eternal perspective as an “active, daily discipline.” What is one habit or practice you could start (or restart) to help lift your eyes above the “mist” of this life and focus on eternity?
- Jesus was honest about his anguish and invited his friends to support him in Gethsemane. Is there a struggle you need to share with someone else for prayer or encouragement? What holds you back from being honest about your suffering?
- The Holy Spirit is described as our helper, intercessor, and comforter in trials. When was the last time you specifically asked the Holy Spirit for help in a difficult situation? How might you rely more on the Spirit’s strength rather than your own this week?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from July 27
- “Who You Say I Am”
- “Oceans (Where My Feet May Fail)”
- “Time” (after the message)
- “I Will Rise” (after the message)
Listen to the songs we play on Sundays by clicking the image below to access our Spotify playlist!
