Thursday, July 16, 2026

Scripture

“I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18

Reflections

It’s next to impossible to get through this life without knowing suffering of some type.  Suffering can be physical, emotional, economic, or even spiritual.  We suffer as we stand alongside loved ones who are enduring difficult times.

Sometimes suffering comes as the result of something we have done.  Sometimes we suffer from something beyond our control.  Either way, suffering comes with life.  Suffering is not a part of God’s intention for creation.  Evil appeared uninvited.

Giving up on God in the midst of suffering will not get us anywhere good.  If God is not our source of hope, where are we going to find it?  That would only leave us despairing and depressed.

Gratefully, we have the story of Jesus who broke into our world, a world seeped in suffering.  He ministered his caring touch, revealing his true nature.  He is a God of love.

There’s nothing fun about suffering.  Still, we know Jesus has been raised from the dead.  He is our future.  When we are in his nearer presence, all the sufferings of this world will be nothing more than a harmless memory.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the future hope I have in you.  When I am immersed in the sufferings of this life, grant me a perspective greater than this moment.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Romans 8:12-25