November 4                                                                     The Power of God’s Word
I am glad when I suffer for you in my body, for I am participating in the suffering of Christ that continue for his body, the church. – Colossians 1:24 (NLT)
PARTICIPATING IN CHRIST’S BODY
A poem and essay by ILMA
When you experience pain, remember Christ who died for you
Recall how much beatings and humiliation he endured
Reflect on how much betrayal and abuse he went through
He did it all to clear you of sin so you can have a breakthrough.
Be glad when you are in pain, you are partaking of his body
He wants you to look at it as an opportunity
He wants you to embrace suffering and rely on his grace
He will never forsake you that is what the bible says.
Suffering is defined by the dictionary as the state of undergoing pain, distress or hardship. On the other hand, the Hebrew definition of suffering is “nasa or nasah” meaning to lift, carry, take. Notice the difference in the worldly view definition against the Hebrew meaning. One connotes burden, while the other emphasizes the act of lifting or carrying. One is pessimistic, the other optimistic.
The bible tells us that we should be glad when we suffer because we are given an opportunity to participate in the body of Christ which is an ongoing journey.
PRAYER
Lord, remind me to take “suffering” as a chance to grow.
REFLECTION
What kinds of suffering have you experienced that made you a better Christian?
For more testimonials about God’s word, please go to YouTube and type ILMA’s Poem Devotionals, or go to www.ilmaarts.com or to receive emails of the poem devotionals, email me at ILMA.ARTS.STUDIO@gmail.com