How Jesus Gives Us Peace in Suffering

“Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer.”
Romans 12:12

Reflection
Suffering, pain, and affliction are inescapable. No matter how much we may try to avoid it, at some point, we will suffer. At times, we may feel alone in our suffering. At other times, even if we know we are not alone, the suffering is so intense, it is all we can do to hold on and hope in the mercy of God that it will end soon. As hard as it can be to remember, especially when the suffering is intense, know you are being held and supported by Jesus, ensuring the suffering is not more than you can handle.

Hope in Jesus. Trust in His mercy and understanding. Remember Jesus endured great suffering throughout His life. He is the Son of God but was not spared from hardships, pain and sorrow. Think of the anxiety He must have experienced in the garden of Gethsemane knowing what was to come. As God sent Jesus an angel to comfort Him, God sends His angels to comfort you now. Think of the pain Jesus suffered throughout His Passion. He endured to the end, never giving up, never giving in to despair. Know He understands the suffering you are undergoing now! Do not be afraid to turn to Him; for who has suffered more? Rest assured he will help you carry your burdens, your pain, your cross.

Sometimes it can be difficult to remember to turn to Him in the midst of our suffering. The pain is so intense that we fold in on ourselves and desire to retreat until the pain leaves us. However, we must turn to Him precisely in these moments when our wounds are exposed, for that is the time when great healing can take place!

His love will penetrate us right where the pain is greatest. He will heal us right when we need it most. Even if the physical or emotional wound is not healed immediately or the situation or problem is not fixed instantly, or even in the coming days or weeks, do not fear! He will heal your heart and give you peace that lasts even in moments when the pain is great or the world will not give you relief! Then, your joy and peace will depend only on Him, who will always be with you and never leave your side.

Prayer
Dear Jesus,
I trust in You. I turn to You in my suffering and pain and trust You will heal my heart. I thank You for Your peace that sustains me in the midst of suffering and pain. I trust one day I will even experience the joy the saints speak of in the midst of their suffering – for the power of Your love and healing is that great! Praised be to Your name! Thank You, Jesus, for never leaving my side. I surrender all to You, my Savior, my Lord, my God.