S. Rewards of Suffering
Rewards of Suffering The other day, my dear friend Kamal and I were traveling back home after having our ministry meeting. As we were conversing on our way, he made an insightful comment. When we go through suffering, we generally tend to comfort ourselves and others by reviving the focus on the reward that we would be receiving in heaven. True, we do receive a great reward on the Last Day when we endure trials, for it is written, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12). But then, why don’t we also realize the rewards that we get here on earth because of afflictions? Kamal further talked about the blessings that we receive as a result of suffering in this world. What could be those rewards? As I was reflecting on our conversation, the following Scriptures come into mind.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3)
As the Holy Scripture reveals, we learn patience under pressure and get maturity under adversity. There are no shortcuts or smooth paths to attain these virtues. The plain truth is - without going through affliction, we cannot attain perfection (maturity). Our character is shaped under crisis. So, aren’t patience and maturity, which are developed as a result of suffering, a great blessing in our lives? Should we not rejoice, as Paul says in Romans 5:3 and even James in James 1:2, for what suffering produces in our lives? Isn’t this a great reward on earth?
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