Suffering Sucks Pt. 2: What I’ve Learned About What It Means To Follow Christ

Suffering Sucks Pt. 2: What I’ve Learned About What It Means To Follow Christ

Jesus suffered in the desert, for 40 days and 40 nights.

Jesus suffered when Lazarus died.

Jesus suffered when Judas betrayed Him.

Jesus suffered when when Peter denied Him.

Jesus suffered with every lash from the whip by the Roman Soldiers ordered to torture Him.

Jesus suffered as He carried a piece of wood up a hill.

Jesus suffered when they drove nails in His body.

Jesus suffered when they erected the Cross.

Jesus suffered as He hung on the cross.

Jesus suffered the insults, the mockery, and the humiliation of crucifixion.

All to show us just how far LOVE was willing to go.

When Jesus said, “Abba, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing,” humanity had a chance to see for themselves who God is and what He was willing to endure to see His people restored to their true identity as beloved Sons and Daughters of the Kingdom.

The suffering of my wife, my children, and myself has taught me more than a life of convenience and getting my way ever could.

We’ve learned what real faith is.

We’ve learned what prayer is.

We’ve learned what it means to “suffer the dark night of the soul.”

We’ve seen the “goodness of God in the land of living.” When weariness came knocking on our door, we didn’t answer. When doubt and disbelief tempted us to give up, God whispered...”don’t give up before the miracle happens!”

With all that’s happened, one of the greatest gifts has been the Body of Christ rising up to meet our needs in more ways than I can count. I’ve seen God work through people I don’t even know personally.

Don’t give up before the miracle happens. Suffering sucks, there is no doubt about it, just take a deep breath and say to your self, “Abba, I belong to you.”

From one Dusty Disciple to another, God’s love will see you through!

Much Love,

Pastor Jeremy E.