What Suffering Is Teaching Me

What has this New Year brought to you or your loved ones?  If you are experiencing pain or facing hardship of any kind, there may be lessons that can only be learned through such struggles. Since studying under Dr. Nam Soo Choi last October, I have reflected deeply on the teachings related to Elijah’s prayer life, never realizing at that time how relevant they would become.

God permits suffering

“A prayer is not cultivated at a desk in front of a computer screen” (nor during a Zoom call) at a seminar or workshop. In ways that I cannot fully comprehend, God permits His servants to experience suffering either personally or vicariously through the pain of others.

Suffering may manifest as physical hardship as you grapple with your own unique struggles (your “thorn in the flesh”), or it may come from the challenges of a difficult assignment. Elijah’s suffering, for instance, lasted three and a half years.

Enduring hardship is a fundamental aspect of becoming a true pray-er. During times of struggle, we often find ourselves stripped of distractions, prompting us to rely more deeply on prayer. This journey nurtures a more genuine and heartfelt dialogue with God, allowing us to express our fears, hopes, and needs openly.

Learn to surrender

Through suffering, we learn to surrender our will and desires, aligning ourselves with a greater purpose. It fosters resilience and empathy, enabling us to connect with the struggles of others. As we navigate our own pain, our prayers can evolve from mere requests for relief into profound expressions of trust and gratitude, even amid trials.

Suffering teaches patience and perseverance

During prolonged periods of suffering, it becomes clear that such experiences teach us patience and perseverance—both essential for a vibrant prayer life.

Extended suffering inspires us to appreciate the importance of waiting on God and trusting His perfect timing and wisdom. This not only reframes our experiences but also leads to a richer, more profound prayer life that draws us closer to the heart of God.

Suffering teaches faith and reliance upon God

Faith and reliance on God can transform our prayer life. Instead of lamenting our suffering, recognizing it as an opportunity for spiritual growth through prayer can revolutionize our resilience and deepen our spiritual journey.