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Thursday, 20 August, 2026

For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.

Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we also believe, and so we also speak, knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 4:5-15 (ESV)

Suffering Produces Endurance

Reflection Sometimes as Christians, we make it sound like we always have it all together. That we do not go through suffering as believers and everything is always okay. But, as we read in Romans 5:3, we know that suffering produces endurance, and without suffering would we truly know the depths of pain, suffering and torment that Jesus went through to save us from death?

Without difficult times or suffering, our character would not hold strong to any trials or tribulations. Only through difficult times can we learn that God is our strength, our provider, and that we are incapable of going through it alone. That is why community is so important. To share in our suffering, so that we may be comforted, receive prayer, words of encouragement, and fellowship.

Acknowledge that you are going through a difficult time - this is often the first step. Then, give your suffering over to God and He will make your burdens light.

Prayer Jesus, please help us to remember that suffering produces endurance and that we can endure because You are with us. Thank You for always being there when we need You. Please give us the endurance to go through difficult times. Amen.

Carla Crous