by John Huie, West District Associate Lay Leader
When we see the words together so many thoughts will appear in our minds. Each one of us has experienced some form of pain and suffering.
Having and or caring for someone with cancer, broken bones, torn ligaments, concussion, bad sprang, or someone close to you passing away, all are examples of pain and suffering. Maybe your pain and suffering are not physical, but mental anguish (bills, job, next meal, depression, anxiety, going back to the office), could be spiritual pain and suffering. I am not a medical doctor, nor a psychologist, but I am a Christian. We can provide comfort, consul, listening, a sounding board, and the most powerful tool we have is prayer. During this time of Easter, what can we do to serve our fellow members of the church and community? Can we work at a soup kitchen, pack boxes of food at a food bank, feed those around us (could be your neighbor) with food and shelter, drop food off at the church, cook meals for family promise, become a prayer warrior, or just stand still in quiet to listen to God’s request to you? Go to the Lord in prayer to take the pain and suffering away from you.
Finally, a list of items one should do during pain and suffering.
- Give it all to Jesus; please do not keep this to yourself. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” – Psalm 34:18 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
- Fill yourself with God’s word and God’s people. “How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey.” – Psalm 119:103
- Do not be filled with pain and suffering but fill yourself with worship.
- God will turn your pain and suffering into great joy. “He comforts us in all our troubles so we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”- 2 Corinthians 1:4
- Pain and suffering will end. “I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” – John 14:27 “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Here’s a video to share from Jeremy Camp – Overcome https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8AB0vUU038
