Enduring Hardship: The Unspoken Art of Suffering
8/22/20242 min read
One of the topics that I believe the church often shies away from is the necessity of enduring long-suffering. We speak about blessings, breakthroughs, houses, cars, prosperity and not to mention marriages, but rarely do we dive into the uncomfortable truth that as followers of Christ, suffering is not just a possibility; it’s a guarantee. This avoidance has left many Christians ill-equipped to handle trials, leading to a tendency to compromise our faith when faced with hardships.
In 2 Timothy 2:3-5, Paul exhorts Timothy to “endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” He reminds him—and us—that suffering is part of the Christian walk. Just as a soldier does not entangle himself in civilian affairs but remains focused on his mission, so must we stay committed to our calling, even when the path is steep and painful.
But what does it mean to endure hardship? It means to suffer without complaining, without compromising our faith, and with a heart full of gratitude. Endurance isn’t just about biting our teeth and getting through the tough times. It’s about maintaining our integrity, finding strength in Christ, and keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
Unfortunately, many of us have not learned how to suffer well. We’ve been conditioned to believe that suffering is to be avoided at all costs. When trials come, we complain, we doubt, and sometimes, we even compromise our beliefs to find relief. At times, we may become distracted by worldly pleasures, trying to numb the pain of our suffering. But the truth is that suffering is a tool in God’s hands. It refines us, builds us up, draws us closer to Him, and ultimately, shapes us into the image of Christ.
Paul’s words challenge us to shift our perspective. Instead of asking, “Why me?” we should be asking, “What is God teaching me through this?” Instead of seeking the quickest way out, we should seek God’s presence in the midst of our pain. It’s hard, yes, but it’s possible. With Christ, we can learn to suffer with patience, to endure without complaining, and to give thanks in all circumstances.
The church must start speaking more openly about the reality of suffering and equip believers to endure it. We need to teach that suffering, when faced with faith, is not a sign of defeat but of victory. It is in our suffering that God’s strength is made perfect, and it is through endurance that we truly become good soldiers of Jesus Christ.
Are you struggling to endure your own season of hardship? You’re not alone.
In my book, "The Pain of the Process," I wrote about some of the trials we’re faced with as believers and how God uses them to mold and strengthen us. Through personal stories, scriptural insights, and practical encouragement, this book is a guide to help you navigate suffering with faith and hope.
If you’re ready to embrace God’s purpose in your pain and find strength in the midst of your struggles, I invite you to explore "The Pain of the Process."