Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. (Rom. 8:17)
As a father, I love when my children call out to me. I remember the first time each of my three girls said, “Daddy.” It was music to my ears, and I savored the moment. God is such a relational God that he lifts us from servant to friend to his child. We call God our Father by the Spirit who indwells us, and the beauty is that we can call out to “Abba” anytime. His ears are open to our cries. Our pain moves his heart. We have become heirs of God, receiving all he has planned in heaven for us. We cannot begin to comprehend what God has in store for those who love him. However, as long as we are here on earth, we will face some suffering.
This was true for Jesus as well. “Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered” (Heb. 5:8). Jesus himself learned obedience through suffering. We cannot assume we will escape earthly sorrow. Paul added, “Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Rom. 8:18). When all is said and done, the trouble and pain will have been worth it all. In your sufferings, hold your head up and call out to your heavenly Father. Keep your focus, seek his presence, and he will make himself known to you.
Take your pain to God, and allow him to comfort you.
Scott Simmons serves as lead pastor of Kernersville Wesleyan Church (NC). He previously served The Wesleyan Church as director of youth ministries.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
