Is Suffering Inevitable But Fear Optional?

“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.” (Revelation 2:10)

“Now, this is going to hurt just a little bit.” Most of us heard these words. Sometimes it does hurt “just a little bit.” Usually it hurts more than the medical specialist let on. Because if he said, “This is going to make you want to scream like crazy we’d yell “stop!” I’ve lost count of the number of times it’s hurt much more than just a little bit and I have a pretty high tolerance for pain.

Suffering comes. It’s inevitable in our world that is filled with sin. But consider this for a moment: Suffering does not have to be accompanied by fear.

Imagine knowing something was about to hurt more than you were prepared for but you felt a complete lack of fear. No fright, nerves, anxiety, or dread. No trembling, cold sweats, apprehension, dread, hesitation, or worry.

How is it humanly possible to know pain or suffering will come, yet not feel fear? It is not–not humanly possible. Only through the presence of the Holy Spirit can we ever feel peace in the middle of pandemonium. Only through our relationship with Jesus, can He provide serenity instead of shock, tranquility through the trembles.

Chronic illness could leave us with immense anxiety every day. We can worry about everything from getting through our plans of the day, simply getting around, the side effects of medication, the bills that continue to arrive in the mail, disappointing those we love, and the list goes on. Don’t surrender over to the fear or it can not just overwhelm you, but envelop you.

Prayer: Lord, I praise you for the gifts You have given me access to by simply knowing Jesus in an intimate relationship. You know all the ways that I could allow fear and anxiety to take over my mind. I ask for daily strength to choose to surrender it over to you and feel that peace that can pass our human understanding.

About the Author:
Lisa Copen is the founder of Rest Ministries and she has lived with rheumatoid arthritis since 1993. Illness is fertile ground where emotions can grow that can separate us farther from God’s love. If you are struggling with people not understanding what your daily life is like, you will find a chance to grow through this in Lisa’s book, “Why Can’t I Make People Understand? Discovering the Validation Those With Chronic Illness Seek and Why.” All proceeds help keep Rest Ministries going!