USE IT

Suffering is an inevitable thread in the fabric of human experience, often holding within it the seeds of profound growth and transformation. Romans 5 weaves a narrative that transforms suffering into a theme of perseverance. The Scriptures echo the sentiment, portraying suffering not as a detour but as a refining fire, forging endurance and perseverance.

How do we navigate suffering, especially for the sake of the Gospel? Acts 14 provides glimpses of early believers enduring hardships, emphasising that the Gospel isn’t served in theory but in the crucible of practical, everyday challenges. Like a boat in the sea, the church exists to navigate the world, and suffering becomes the canvas where the Gospel is vividly displayed. In the parables of Mark 4, Jesus challenges us to represent our faith practically. Like a boat, the church is not meant to be docked but launched into the sea—the world. Suffering becomes an opportunity for the Gospel to be preached not just in words but in deeds.

The biblical narrative, particularly in Acts, unfolds stories of individuals like Stephen, whose suffering served to advance the Gospel. Your story, too, is a vessel for God’s Kingdom. It also reveals that making hasty decisions amid a storm can lead to unintended consequences. Sometimes, it’s in going through the storm that we truly discover God’s ability to carry us through.

Like a brilliant tapestry, Joseph’s story teaches us that suffering is not a sign of God’s absence but a part of His larger plan. As we navigate the storms of life, remember that suffering can be a refining force, a practical representation of your faith, and an opportunity for the Gospel to shine brightly.