CHRIST Owns Tribulations

This suffering ____ is going through is CHRIST’s sufferings that ____ is to share with CHRIST (1 Pet 4:13). Help (him/her), FATHER, to not twist this circumstance of suffering into what would best suit (him/her).

The logical way of dealing with (his/her) affliction is to find a way to end it as soon as possible. But that is never what You intend, FATHER. The situations You give are not sidetracks in life intended to be navigated quickly—its not about getting back to comfort and productive things.

If ____ is treating this suffering as if it belongs to (him/her), guide (him/her) into making it an instrument of Your intention. It has purpose. The way (he/she) travels through the conflict must put CHRIST on center stage (ref#5, p153).

FATHER, remind ____ of the early church. Their response to suffering affliction was not to pray the affliction be taken away, instead they prayed for freedom to further proclaim the Gospel through it (Acts 4:23-31).

“…grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness,” (Acts 4:29 ESV).

LORD, help ____ settle into suffering, looking to You for advice in how to proceed. Remind (him/her) that suffering is an end in itself as is all circumstances. You provide all circumstances as a gift—an opportunity to trust more in Y ou.