Suffering? Jesus is Here

I am not an expert at suffering and I must admit I don’t pray for opportunities to experience it. But, at this stage of life’s journey, I’m old enough to know that if we’re not suffering in some way now, something is coming down the pipe.

I read in the words of Paul that suffering can produce good, resilient qualities in us (Romans 5:3-4). I say can because handled poorly, suffering can lead to bitterness, further harm, and reproducing of offence. I don’t know about you, but over the years, I’ve handled suffering well at times and poorly at others.

At some points, the Lord has been trying to do things in my life through suffering, although I must confess sometimes it’s hard to know what.

One thing I can see clearly is that He’s been guiding me to turn more fully to Him and rest in His arms, just like the Apostle John at the Last Supper.

Jesus has always been here, but during these particular times, His presence has been a steady comfort, a source of faithful security–sometimes to the point of being overwhelmed by His goodness. He’s been protecting me through the valley and He’s even spread out a feast in the midst of trial and tribulation (Psalm 23).

If you’re in a valley right now, in what way could you give Him more “room” to walk with you, to be your source of safety, refuge, and security?

“Shepherd Jesus, please help me fix my eyes on You through this time and also allow You to do what You want to do in me while on this part of my life’s path.”