Suffering and Glory. (Sheba International)

 Suffering and Glory: Embracing the Hope of Christ in the Midst of Tribulation

The days leading up to the return of Jesus Christ will undoubtedly be marked by extreme trials for believers. The Bible paints a clear picture of a world in turmoil, a time when the forces of evil, led by the Antichrist, will seem to hold dominion. These will be dark days of persecution, suffering, and intense testing for Christians. Yet, in the midst of these trials, we find a profound promise of hope, victory, and glory.

The Bible does not shy away from acknowledging the suffering that Christians will face in the last days. In fact, Jesus Himself warned His followers, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). The Antichrist will rise to power, and his reign will be one of great evil. Christians will be despised, persecuted, and many will even face martyrdom for their faith. The world will appear to be spiraling out of control, and it may seem like the forces of darkness are winning.

However, Scripture encourages us to remain steadfast, to place our hope fully in the promises of God, and to remember that suffering, though real and painful, is not the end of the story. In Psalm 37:7-9, we are reminded: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret – it leads only to evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.”

The Reality of Suffering

In the final days, Christians may experience deep distress as they witness the increase of sin and lawlessness in the world. It can be easy to grow weary in the face of such evil, to feel overwhelmed by the rising tide of injustice, hatred, and persecution. We might even wonder how we will endure. But the Bible speaks directly to these concerns. It encourages us not to fret when we see the wicked prosper, nor to let anger or bitterness take root in our hearts. Instead, we are to “be still before the Lord” and wait patiently for His deliverance.

Suffering is an inevitable part of the Christian life, especially in the last days. Yet, it is crucial to remember that our suffering is not without purpose. In Romans 8:17, Paul reminds us that we are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.” There is a glory that awaits us—a glory that can only be understood in light of the suffering we endure. Just as Christ’s path to glory was through the cross, so too our journey to eternal glory is through suffering.

The Hope of Glory

While we may face persecution and hardship, we can also rest in the glorious truth that our Savior has already overcome the world. The promise of future glory far outweighs the trials we experience today. Paul writes in Romans 8:18: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” The suffering we face now is temporary, but the glory we will experience in eternity with Christ is eternal and immeasurable.

This hope is not just a future reality; it is a present comfort. The knowledge that God is in control, that His plan is unfolding perfectly, and that our suffering is a means of sanctification and growth in Him, gives us strength to persevere. Jesus told His disciples, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom” (Luke 12:32). Even as the world may seem to crumble around us, we are assured that God’s kingdom is unshakable.

Living Victorious in Christ

As we look forward to Christ’s return, we must also live in a way that reflects our trust in God’s promises. The way we respond to suffering and persecution can be a powerful testimony to the world around us. In 1 Peter 4:12-13, Peter encourages believers, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.”

Our response to suffering should be one of faith and joy, knowing that each trial is an opportunity to grow in our relationship with Christ and to reflect His glory to the world. Our hope is anchored not in the temporary circumstances we face, but in the eternal victory that is ours in Christ Jesus.

The Final Word

In these last days, as we face an increasingly hostile world, let us not be discouraged by the evil we see. Let us not be overtaken by fear or anger. Instead, let us rest in the promises of God, trusting that He will bring justice to the wicked and reward His faithful servants. The path of suffering leads to the path of glory, and no matter how dark the days may seem, we are promised that Christ will return to make all things right.

As we wait for that day, let us live with hope, peace, and joy, knowing that our suffering is not in vain. May we endure faithfully, trusting in the eternal glory that awaits us. And as we do, let us point others to the Savior, who offers redemption, peace, and hope, even in the darkest of times.

“The one who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Keep your eyes on Jesus, and remember, glory awaits!

In Christ

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