Some of our friends were surprised when Steve publicly admitted that our family does not like to run.  Sure, we run four to five days a week.  Sure, we keep a log of our individual record times on the refrigerator.  But not one of us likes running just for the sake of running.  Truthfully, it hurts.   It really, really hurts.  My knee aches; my foot throbs; my side complains; my lungs protest.  In many ways it's downright miserable.  But when it's over?  How sweet to see the finish line!  How wonderful to breath normally again!  How delightfully relaxing to stand and rest weary legs while washing dishes at the sink.   Running gives me a new perspective.

I've heard a good deal about suffering lately.  Steve preached on it last Lord's Day, our family talked about it last week in preparation for the sermon, and tonight, during a women's Bible study, the topic lept up again.  

Romans 8 talks about the importance of suffering.  Hebrews talks about the suffering of the faithful. All Scripture proclaims the joy that we should have in suffering.  In fact, there's no getting around the fact that suffering, in the Christian life, is an absolute necessity. 

In only a few areas have I learned to suffer joyfully.  I so often forget that it is in my suffering that I am most like Christ and truly become His heir. 

So, I'm praying for opportunities to suffer; and in Christ's strength I will hope to do so joyfully. I don't know how the suffering will come.  Maybe little ways.  My comfort level may be tested and stretched.  I may endure riducule on Christ's behalf.  Or perhaps I'll physically endure a challenge.  Or lose a loved one.  Or face financial tests.   I don't know what God's plan is for my life but I know that it will be good.  My flesh is frightened to pray for opportunities to suffer; yet I know that suffering makes me more like Him, and to be like Him is my greatest desire. 

I'm telling you so that you can hold me accountable when trials come my way.  If I'm whining, encourage me to rest in the Lord.   If I'm doubting, tell me to trust.  If I'm scared, comfort me with a hug.  If I'm angry, point me to the One Who is in control.  If I'm prideful, remind me from whence my strength comes.