Romans 5:3: “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance…” (ESV)

Another tough one. As my identity in Christ grows, I have noticed that situations and circumstances have less of an impact on my joy. Or, I can return to joy amid troubling emotions. Bad things are going to happen this side of heaven. Knowing that is important. However, living as if that’s true is another thing. We naturally desire that trouble and suffering stay far away from us, and when they get near, they tend to throw us out of wack. 

As a follower of Jesus, we are even promised to have trouble in this world.

How we respond says a lot about our confidence in our new identity. If we are solidly in Christ (in both our head and heart), we can experience joy when suffering comes our way because we know who is in control and who we belong to. We experience fear, anxiousness, and overwhelming doubt if we are shaky in our identity.

Don’t forget the community aspect of this as well. You can rejoice in the midst of all of the negativity because you are surrounded by others who can “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). We need each other. We lean on one another and lift one another up when they can’t stand on their own. 

To be able to rejoice during trouble and suffering is a sign of maturity. For individuals, families, and communities.

#IdentityTruths #100daysofidentity #WhoAreYou 

Photo by Matthew Osborn on Unsplash