Struggle. Hardship.
Few people seek out these seasons of life (understandably), but they can be some of our most defining moments.
Bishop TD Jakes shares with Max Lucado from his book Crushing: God Turns Pressure into Power that God is with us in our hardships and there’s purpose in who we’re becoming through difficult seasons.
“His promise is to be with you in the process,” says Bishop Jakes.
In this short clip, Jakes mentions three takeaways about seasons of suffering:
1. Personally Experience Unique Attributes of God
Seasons of suffering give us a unique need and dependence on God—THE God Who is already there, as suggested by His identity:
Jehovah-Shammah, “The Lord is There”
Often, we ask for deliverance from these hard times (and He can do that!), but the blessing of His presence WITH us (Immanuel, God with us) through the season, as we experience it, is just as necessary.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1b (ESV)
“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10, NIV
2. Jesus’ Example
One of the most identifiable symbols of Christianity—the Cross—depicts suffering.
We serve a God who is not only with us through times of suffering, but One who has experienced the worst forms of suffering.
He knows hurt. He’s felt agony.
In fact, He felt this for us; showcasing the depths of His love for us.
Scripture also informs believers about the realities of suffering in the Christian life:
James 1:2-4; 2 Corinthians 4:8-9; Romans 5:3-4; 1 Peter 4:12-13
3. On the Other Side
Though we are not promised this insight, there are often times in life that we can look back and see the purpose or future use for a season of suffering.
Though the “Why?” question is one of the weightiest questions of the Christian life, beautiful are the moments that we experience an “Aha!” for how God is redeeming circumstances in our lives.
Perhaps you find yourself in a season of suffering right now. Know that our Prayer Partners would love to pray with you and are available 24/7 here:
Call at 1-714-731-1000 in the U.S. or +1-714-731-1000 (international).
Know, friends, that God is with you in this season.
Watch the full Praise episode with Bishop Jakes here: https://watch.tbn.tv/praise/videos/praise-367