When confronted with suffering

When faced with suffering, our first response should mirror that of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he prayed,

“My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39).

In this moment of agony, Jesus exemplified surrender to the will of God, acknowledging his human frailty while entrusting himself entirely to the Father’s goodness, wisdom, and sovereignty. Christ’s pain brought about our salvation. His pain became our gain! Prayer is that personal contact with the ultimate Healer and can be described as the birth canal for all healing:

‘When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.’ 1 Peter 2:23-25 NIV

Similarly, we are called to surrender our desires, fears, and anxieties to God, trusting in His perfect plan and timing which serves as a testimony of His character. In Philippians 4:6-7, we are reminded to

“not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

In times of suffering, prayer becomes our lifeline, providing us with a direct line of communication with the One who is our refuge and strength. Through prayer, we can pour out our hearts before God, expressing our deepest concerns and seeking His guidance, comfort, and provision. 

As we lift our petitions to Him with thanksgiving, we are reminded of His faithfulness and goodness, cultivating a spirit of gratitude and trust in His unfailing love.

Ultimately, our approach to handling suffering as Christ’s followers is characterised by faith, surrender, and prayer. We trust in God’s promise to work all things together for our good, even when circumstances may seem dire or hopeless. We surrender our will to His, recognising His sovereignty and wisdom in all things. And we turn to Him in prayer, seeking His peace and presence to sustain us through the trials and tribulations of life. In doing so, we find strength, comfort, and hope in the midst of suffering, knowing that we are held secure in the hands of our loving and faithful Father.