We tend not to suffer very well.
The problem for Christians is that Jesus promised his followers that they would suffer, and suffer in spades. He told his disciples they would have tribulation in the world (John 16:33), that they shouldn’t be surprised at ordeals (1 Peter 4:12), and that we should even “consider it joy” when trials come (James 1:2).
In Revelation 2:8-11, Jesus reminds the congregation of this unpleasant fact, but demonstrates to them that suffering, for the one who is in Christ, does not hold power over them. He does. And not only does he have power over and for them, he is their relief. In fact, he tells them not to worry about their suffering, because, well, they will be getting some more.
Continue Reading “When the Lord’s Relief from Suffering is…More Suffering”
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