Three times in the first 11 verses of that chapter we are told to rejoice: “We rejoice in the hope of the glory of God” (v. 2). “We rejoice in our sufferings” because they produce endurance (v. 3). And in verse 11, “We also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Everyone gets to the other side of great suffering eventually. It might be achieved only in the next life, but the slow recovery of another in this life stirs hope in us that we might endure as well.

Our discipleship is a process that leads to becoming more and more like Jesus so that our witness is a more clear reflection of God to others.

Maybe AI can help us learn what Solomon tried to teach us several centuries ago. Proverbs 17: 27 offers advice that AI might have recently confirmed: “Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.”

If we hold grudges, cling to old wounds, or fail to be reconciled to another believer, Paul’s instructions from this chapter may need to be a matter of prayer and action, so that we can together show the world the power of the cross.

By concentrating on becoming more like Jesus rather than fixating on political parties or leaders, Christians can better reflect the life and love of Christ, regardless of the political climate.

Followers of Christ are called to walk by faith throughout their lives, trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice and looking forward to a future where they will see Him clearly in eternity, while navigating their current lives with faith in God’s guidance.

If the love of Christ has transformed us, then we must daily renew our hearts and minds and allow the Holy Spirit to bring to our attention any attitudes, relationships, or thought processes that are not consistent with the mind of Christ.

Reflecting on past experiences of God's intervention and the sacrificial love of Jesus empowers us to face each day with confidence, trusting in His presence through all circumstances.

Jesus' unconventional approach to greatness, exemplified by his embrace of children and emphasis on selfless service, challenges conventional wisdom and calls for a reevaluation of personal goals and values.

The prophet Hanani's rebuke to Asa highlights the importance of maintaining unwavering faith in God, as his eyes are always searching for those who rely wholeheartedly on him.

When we surrender who we are to the Lord, he becomes our sufficiency and our victory.

The essence of Job’s words is this: whatever you are facing today is not the end. Whatever the obstacles, whatever the health crisis, whatever the financial mess, however damaged the relationship, however high the mountain to climb, whatever we face currently, is not the end of our story.

Paul's relationship with the Corinthian church reflects the challenge of being misunderstood as Christians strive to follow Jesus faithfully in a world that may not always comprehend their actions.

Trouble often prompts immediate reactions, but Nehemiah's example teaches us the wisdom of starting with prayer to seek God's guidance and strength.

Fear and fatigue can distort our perceptions, as seen when Jesus calmed his disciples' fears during a storm, emphasizing the reassurance and guidance available through prayer.

Our growth often emerges from stepping beyond our comfort zones, relying not on ourselves but on God's strength and presence during times of difficulty.

All suffering experienced in our perishable bodies is temporary, akin to the perishable nature of worldly problems, reminding us to place our trust in Christ, whose promises ensure that our efforts and trials serve eternal purposes.

Joshua's journey symbolizes a universal truth: that leadership transitions require faith, courage, and a steadfast focus on God's word, offering wisdom and strength even in moments of uncertainty.

While not meeting all apostleship criteria initially, Paul's encounter with Christ transformed him into a dedicated apostle, instrumental in spreading the gospel globally.