Re Verse reading this week–2 Corinthians 1:1-11. “For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:5) When Paul talked his abundant sufferings, he was not exaggerating. The book of Acts is clear about the multiple occasions that Paul was beaten, “rumored” out of town, opposed, stoned, arrested or criticized. Calling them the “sufferings of Christ” means that these particular troubles were CAUSED by his loyalty to Christ, or that they were COMPARABLE to the sufferings that Jesus experienced. (rejection, loneliness, persecution etc) Paul is not unique. None of us are promised a life that is easy, fair or pain-free. Instead, the scripture teaches us that we should want to know “the fellowship of his sufferings”. (Philippians 3:10) Rather than seeking safety, we are to desire the intimate friendship with Christ that comes only by walking with Him through the hard things of life. Dear Lord, help me not complain when life is unfair or I am misunderstood. Teach me to find your comfort as I experience your sufferings.
