THE KINGDOM IN OUR PAIN
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
2 Corinthians 4:17 (NIV)
Pain has a way of shrinking our vision. When we’re hurting physically, emotionally or spiritually, it’s hard to see beyond the moment. But Paul, who knew deep suffering, invites us to lift our eyes to the Father. No matter how heavy it feels now, what we're going through is not the end of the story. In God’s hands, suffering is not wasted. God is working in our suffering.
Paul isn’t saying our pain doesn’t matter. He’s saying it matters more than we realize. God uses our pain to move things in eternity. God’s kingdom is not one without hardship. But God, in His graciousness, redeems our suffering. Struggles can deepen our compassion. Disappointments can drive us to depend on God. Weaknesses can open the door to unexpected strength. And all of it, Paul says, is achieving for us a weight of glory that will last forever. Our troubles are working for us.
Joni Eareckson Tada, Christian author, radio host and quadriplegic after a life-changing diving accident at age 17, once said, There is nothing that moves a loving father’s soul quite like his child’s cry. Her words capture the tender responsiveness of God to our pain. Joni’s accident was a pivotal event that launched her ministry and advocacy for people with disabilities.
Think of it like a seed buried in soil. It looks like a loss. It feels like darkness. But underground, something is happening. Roots are taking hold. Life is beginning. And in time, that seed breaks through with beauty. That’s the kind of impact suffering can have. Good coming from pain.
When we walk through suffering with Jesus, we receive a unique opportunity to grow. Our growth shines as a witness to others. People notice peace in the storm. They notice hope that doesn’t quit. That’s Kingdom impact.
APPLICATION: What are you carrying today that feels heavy? Offer it to God (again). Ask Him to show you how He might use it to shape something beautiful.
PRAYER: Father, when I’m suffering, I struggle to know how to respond. I trust Your word about my pain being redemptive. Help me use my pain to grow my faith and to help others see You at work. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?