Daily Devotional - Terms of Agreement - WK8 - 2/19/25 - Day 50 - "Rejoicing in Suffering"

Author: Evangelist Lisa Dalton

“Rejoicing in Suffering”
Scripture: Colossians 1:24 (NIV)

"Now I rejoice in what I am  suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church."

Devotion:
Paul’s words in this verse may seem surprising—how can someone rejoice in suffering? Yet, Paul saw his hardships as a way to serve Christ and His church. He wasn’t saying that Christ’s suffering on the cross was incomplete. Instead, he recognized that as followers of Christ, we too will face trials as we carry out His mission.

Paul willingly endured difficulties for the sake of spreading the gospel and strengthening the body of Christ. His joy came not from the pain itself but from knowing that his suffering had a purpose—bringing others closer to Jesus.

As believers, we may face opposition, rejection, or hardships in our faith journey. But like Paul, we can find joy in knowing that our struggles are not in vain. Every trial can be an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love and perseverance.

Application:

• Ask God to help you see your hardships as opportunities to grow in faith.
• Encourage someone today who may be struggling in their walk with Christ.
• Remember that suffering for the gospel is never wasted, God uses it for His glory.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to have Paul’s perspective on suffering. Give me the strength to endure difficulties with joy, knowing that You are working through them. Let my struggles bring me closer to You and be a witness to others. Amen.