Some “through the bible” thoughts from Romans 8.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).
“For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now” (Romans 8:22).
The apostle Paul transforms our view of suffering in the eighth chapter of Romans. What if suffering and sorrow were not simply reminders of mortality, but labor and delivery for new life to come?
Since we believe God has the upper-hand on everything, even suffering must be a part of his plans and purposes.
What?
Well, if the cross is any indication, suffering and even death are a part of God’s overarching plan. Suffering produces endurance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-4). Want to experience comfort? It only comes after suffering (2 Cor. 1:7). Want to experience resurrection? You have to die (ugh) (Phil. 3:10-11).
Sore muscles means I am doing some beneficial workouts. My body reveals its power to heal after I’ve cut myself (this happens a lot). Bumps and bruises teach me not to do that again.
You learn from your mistakes? Failure is a better teacher than success? Grasping victory from the jaws of defeat? Exactly.
The next time you’re struggling, look at it as labor pains rather than death pangs.
Waite for it... 