SATURDAY August 19, 2023
Joy in Suffering
But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.
Acts 16:25-26
Paul and Silas were securely locked up in jail. At midnight, they were murmuring and complaining to God––does your Bible say that? No! Most likely that is what you and I would do in the same situation. We would complain, “Why me God?” But Paul and Silas had joy in their suffering.
In the darkness of their prison cell, the apostles were praying and singing hymns to God! What an example these two men are to us in times of suffering. They waited on the Lord patiently and never let the enemy steal their joy. As Paul and Silas prayed and sang to God, the prisoners listened to them. Imagine that! What a good witness they were to them.
Then all of a sudden, God sent a great earthquake that shook the very foundation of the jail. The doors opened, and everyone’s chains instantly fell off. What an incredible miracle!
In dark and difficult times, it is hard to be patient and wait on the Lord. Yet trials help to develop our Christian character. Read these passages of Scripture and be encouraged:
James 1:2: My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
1 Peter 1:6-9: ...though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
Do not let the enemy steal away your joy. In a time of prayer, praise Him.
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
~Philippians 4:4~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
