For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ (2 Corinthians 1:5).
In this world we will have sufferings, afflictions, trials, and tribulations. Yet Jesus overcame.
He never promised we wouldn’t suffer. In truth, we suffer in this world whether we have Jesus or not.
But I think we like to believe that Jesus will keep us from suffering. He overcame. He commands heavenly forces. He’s at the right hand of the Father. He intercedes for us.
So certainly, He can keep us from suffering. He makes our paths straight, so He can smooth them too, right?
But He never promised that. In fact, quite the opposite. A servant is not above his master (Matthew 10:25, John 13:16, John 15:20).
This world is only temporary. And suffering has great purpose. It grows our character. It makes us humble and more like Jesus. It makes us identify with Him. We join with Him, become one with Him. While we don’t go seeking suffering, for this we can rejoice when we face all kinds of trials (James 1:2).
Whether a broken heart or broken relationship, whether physical pain or physical want, all our suffering can grow our character and make us identify with Jesus.
His promises of straight paths are not promises of no suffering or trials. They’re promises to lead us through. They’re promises to comfort. They’re promises to lead us home.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, though I walk through this world, His rod and staff comfort me. He is with me, and I will dwell with him forever. (Psalm 23)
This is my comfort. Jesus is with me. And I am made more like Him — more one with Him — through every trial I endure.
For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.
