The Jesus Who Meets Us in Our Suffering

While in Greece, I had the opportunity to visit the Island of Patmos, where John was banished. While there, he had a glorious vision of the risen and glorified Jesus (Revelation 1:9-17).

John writes that “on the Lord’s Day,” he was in the Spirit, and he heard a loud voice behind him, which was like a trumpet. When he turned, he saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of them was One standing there whom John describes as being “like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance” (Revelation 1:12-16).

Can you imagine? John was living in dire circumstances, isolated and lonely. But when he had this amazing vision of Jesus, he fell at His feet as though dead. Then Jesus reached out and touched him, reminding John that he didn’t need to be afraid because He was alive and glorified!

You may need a touch from Jesus today. Let me remind you:

The Risen and Glorified Jesus Is Present. Even in your suffering, He is with you. Scripture promises that He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). Often, when we suffer, we end up experiencing God’s presence more deeply. A good practice is to document how you experience Him during your journey. When you look back, you will likely discover that Jesus showed up in unexpected and profound ways.

Your Endurance Leads to Reward and Renewal. One benefit of suffering is that it produces patience, endurance, and ultimately, hope. We know we have victory because Jesus has already won. We stand in His victory. So stand confidently! He is your reward.

Worship Brings Deeper Revelation of Jesus. As you learn to worship even when life is rough, you will experience the love and comfort of Christ in profound ways. In my own life, there have been times when I have been on my face before the Lord, worshiping Him, and the Holy Spirit has awakened my heart to a deeper awareness of His presence. He will do the same for you. Make praise and worship a priority in your life, even during seasons of pain. I promise you, the Holy Spirit will allow you to feel God’s presence and love in new ways.

There’s so much more I could write about Revelation 1. I encourage you this week to pull out your Bible and read it. You will realize in a new way that Christ’s touch transforms. He still speaks: Fear not; I won’t let go.

This week on the Connected Mom Podcast, we’re talking about Finding Grace in the Life You Never Expected with Katie Kelley.

As we head into fall, why not start a book club with your friends? Grab a copy of Friend-Wise for yourself and a few others.