I know some Christians believe that if their faith was stronger, they could walk through a very trying and confusing part of life better. Or there are those who do believe their faith is strong, but wind up confused and discouraged when a trial pulls the rug from under their feet. Somehow, at one point or another, I think we believe that our faith is correlated to our emotional state, and because of what Jesus did for us, we need to find a way to be happy all the time.
I mean, the Bible encourages us to be happy right? There are countless verses about setting aside our cares and trusting in the Lord, because most times, that is all we can do. We’ve also got eternal salvation and an Amazing King! But, if we’re trying to be like Him–like Jesus–we need to take a closer look at how he suffered to really understand how to handle our world when it shakes or crumbles.
Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. Luke 22: 39-44
As scripture shows, Jesus was not walking into his crucifixion smiling. He knew it had been prophesied about and was going to save a large part of humanity, but the cross ahead was no less terrifying. Jesus wasn’t even playing it calm or cool–he was asking God to reconsider!
And you know, we’ve all been there, at the start of the road leading to our own crucifixion, our own dying to self, pleading with God to rescue us from enduring it. Pleading for the circumstance to change, the pain to be eased, and the senseless to make sense. But, like Jesus, our suffering has great purpose, whether we handle it well or frequently seek alone time to collapse into a mess!
Scripture goes onto say that despite Jesus’s desire for an easier path, He was willing to do what God asked. And because it was never not going to be agonizing to bear, an angel was sent to strengthen him. So will we be strengthened when we’re shaken! God isn’t seeking for us to be fake and hide when we’re in distress–rather, he’s ready to provide and see us through! Jesus expressed his distress to the point of blood mixing with his sweat!
Trusting God through pain is one of the sweetest ways of getting to know him.
Our crisis shows us how strong He is when we’re not, and teaches us we will survive and make it through round two, three, and four faster and easier each time. Don’t let how you handle struggles determine who you are as a Christian, especially when it’s grief that wracks the soul. Use your faith to trust and rely on God to lead you through to the end, no matter how ugly it gets!
I am a young woman living for Christ every day, discovering all the awesome ways he seeks to redeem my life. Favorite things include: watching movies, teaching children, pursuing graphic design, and spending time with great people ♥
Beautiful, Erica!
Thank you Anita!
Erika, this is a topic that needs to be talked about and understood. You did that is such a great way here. I’m writing about the same topic this week and happened to see your email and open this particular message. : ) I love the way you brought things together for us here. I’m glad I did and will be sharing it this week from everywhere. Blessings!
Leslie, thank you much for your kind words! I think we as Christians feel we should do everything to avoid suffering for a variety of reasons, but Jesus suffered greatly and wasn’t ashamed. I glad this was helpful!
Such a beautiful post, Erika! Trusting God through pain is one of the sweetest ways of getting to know Him – I love these words. As much as I don’t want to accept it at times, the way of Christ is a suffering way, but I’m thankful He strengthens us for the journey and lets us know He is always near. Blessings on your week!