A Proper View of Suffering

Since he believed death would be followed by a resurrection, and his suffering brought God glory, Paul did not give up hope and quit fighting. While the physical body was gradually destroyed by suffering, the spiritual man grew stronger, because of it, daily. The apostle counted his troubles as light because of the reward withstanding them would bring. Trials are temporary, while the reward will be eternal. Scripture clearly teaches bearing up under tribulation will bring reward (2 Corinthians 4:16-17; 2 Timothy 2:12; 1 Peter 4:13; Romans 8:17).

Jesus left us an example that we should respond to worldly trouble by obeying God. (1 Peter 2:7-11) If we think only in terms of this world, we may not be able to bear suffering. Yet, the Christian thinks in terms of eternity and the spiritual rewards to come (2 Corinthians 4:18; Colossians 3:1-4).

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