For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
“Suffering is a gift of God. A gift that makes us most Christlike. People must not accept suffering as a punishment.’
Mother Teresa in No Greater Love (Novato: New World Library, 2001).
I have never heard anyone say that suffering was a gift from God, a form of generosity toward me, but I am learning in real-time that it is true.
Today’s my birthday. 54 years old. I am thankful for the gift of suffering.
After an amazing time in Malawi, yesterday was long and hard day, I had a sense we may face challenges in Mozambique along with meeting wonderful people. But good news, the Lord delivered us from our troubles.
God has safely led us through them all. I give thanks for His unfailing love.
Today we fly to Maputo, Mozambique to meet the GTP Country Representative, Pastor Nelson Pereira, and his team. Pray for safe travel.
And as you think of your own suffering, consider how it is a gift from God?
The Apostle Paul writes that it produces something in us that outweighs the trials, and it shifts our perspective to eternal things. What a gift!