Suffering - the Biblical way

For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. (1 Peter 2:19)

When we suffer, ok, when I suffer, I generally complain and grouse around, making certain others know I am suffering - and unjustly so. I want others to feel my pain, to attempt to make me feel better, to join my suffering-bandwagon.

But that is not the Biblical way of handing things. "When they hurled their insults at him (Jesus), he did not retaliate when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly." (1 Peter 2:23)

What can I do to create a more Biblical response in my suffering? Which itself is almost a silly question because I so seldom suffer, really suffer. Oh, I have my moments, even a day here and there but I have had an extremely blessed life. Yet, when I do suffer, I can't seem to handle it right. I lose sleep. I whine and whimper. And much of my "suffering" is nothing compared to people who really suffer. I mean, those Japanese who are dealing with all the aftermath of the historic earthquake! Now, they are suffering. Death, no "comforts" like electricity, heat, or indoor plumbing. Those people are suffering, mostly with dignity and grace.

No, I haven't dealt with suffering to any real extent. But have I been grateful for that? Some. Not enough. I still complain when things are a little off. I still (sometimes silently) say, "oh, woe is me." I am not asking for the opportunity to suffer and grow through the experience. I don't think I could handle it. I need to practice my response to the small bits of suffering I usually endure and hope it prepares me for the future.

Dear Jesus, I am sorry that I do not appreciate your suffering to the extent I should. I am sorry I still complain over the littlest things. Help me to continue to change to complain even less and be even more grateful. Amen.

Comments

Peggy OverstreetMarch 22, 2011 at 6:55 PM
Yes, "appreciating suffering" -- excellent, and oh so hard to do. I appreciate your writing.
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Sherri HardingMarch 23, 2011 at 10:49 AM
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