February 14

Purpose in Suffering

You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy (James 5:11).

Scripture: James 5:7-12

Song: “Be Still My Soul”

My mother read the biography of Corrie Ten Boom to me when I was a girl, and it has had a lasting impact on me, even though nothing I’ve encountered in my own life can compare with the horrific conditions of Corrie’s imprisonment at Ravensbrück concentration camp. Like Job, Corrie, along with her sister, Betsie, decided to trust God in the midst of terrible circumstances.

In their darkest moments, the sisters turned to Scripture and prayer. Instead of complaining, they created ways to overcome their adversities. They discovered how to be thankful for fleas, and for the unthinkable close-quarters they were forced to live in. A flea-infestation kept the lewd soldiers away from them at night, and the close-quarters allowed the women in the crowded bunks to hear whispered Scriptures, find eternal life and hope in Christ, and together lift up prayer and worship.

When we suffer, we must look to Jesus, who is well-acquainted with suffering. He was despised and rejected by men. He is with us in our pain, and will never turn us away in our grief. Through Him, we can be thankful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18), and look for ways to share His love with others who may be suffering similarly.

Father God, thank You for Your presence with me in every challenging situation and no matter how much darkness surrounds me. Help me to recognize Your presence and I will praise You in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, amen.