ISAIAH 53:4

Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.

TO PONDER

The question of suffering is always a tricky one. Why does God allow it? What purpose can there possibly be in it?

I don't pretend to have the answers to those kinds of questions but one thing that has always brought me comfort in the midst of those questions is this - God understands our suffering.

In Christ Jesus, God took on and experienced the worst of human pain and suffering - he knew what it was to be rejected by his own people. He knew the pain of abuse and violence. He experienced hunger as he fasted in the desert, he felt grief at the death of his friend Lazarus. Whatever reason God might have to allow suffering, he has made sure that we never have to go through it alone. He has promised to be with us and demonstrated his commitment to that promise as he suffered for our sake on the cross.

So no matter what you might be facing, know this - you are not facing it alone. The Lord your God is with you, especially in your suffering.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, just as you won life for me and all those who find their hope and trust in you through the suffering of your son Jesus, make my life and my tough times opportunities for me to bear witness to your goodness and your salvation. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle