A Prayer of Faith Through Suffering
By: Kristine Brown
“Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” 1 Peter 5:9 NIV
Suffering can leave us feeling isolated. Like we’ve been forgotten, left to suffer alone while life goes on without us. Ever see a social media post from a friend, or even your church, that made you feel like you’re on the outside looking in? In difficult times, have you felt like no one understood your pain?
Our enemy wants us to think when we go through hard times, that we are on our own, but Peter’s words address this, so believers will be aware of these lies. Peter knew how those feelings can leave us vulnerable to attack, and he also knew the truth that would bring hope and freedom in times of great suffering.
1 Peter 5:9 reads, “Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
There are others who understand what we’re going through. We are stronger when we realize our brothers and sisters in Christ are “undergoing the same kind of suffering” that we are. Our faith grows as we recognize we are stronger together and choose to support one another in our struggles.
Peter goes on to tell about the hope beyond our suffering. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” 1 Peter 5:10
Let’s thank God today for His promise to restore us by His never-ending grace in our lives. We are not alone. Let’s call to Him today with a prayer of faith, even through our suffering.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Sometimes I feel so alone. I feel as if no one understands what I’m going through. Hear my prayer today, Lord. Help me to stand firm in my faith through times of suffering.
I know the enemy wants me to believe no one cares. But your Word says I am never alone. I choose to believe the truth of Psalm 23:4 that says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me…” Help me hold on to this truth when I am going through difficulties in my life. You are always here, ready to offer peace, mercy, and love.
Lord, when I see others who are suffering, show me ways to reach out to them. Give me opportunities to share your love with others, so they won’t feel alone. Thank you for giving us strength to persevere and compassion for our brothers and sisters in faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
For more spiritual growth resources, check out this free digital download from today’s devotion writer Kristine Brown, 100 of God’s Promises for Your Unraveled Heart. You’ll find weekly encouragement to help you “become more than yourself through God’s Word” at her website, kristinebrown.net. Kristine is the author of the book, Cinched: Living with Unwavering Trust in an Unfailing God.
Related Resource: Jesus Calling - Stories of Faith
Kerry Washington. Andrea Bocelli. Reba McEntire. Mark Wahlberg. Tony Dungy. Matthew McConaughey, What do all of these people have in common? They are all people of faith who have leaned on God in both the good and challenging times—and they’ve shown up to tell their story of faith on The Jesus Calling Podcast. The Jesus Calling Podcast provides a place for people from all walks of life to share the heartaches, joys, and divine moments that keep them going.
Inspired by Sarah Young's classic devotional book, the Jesus Calling podcast has brought encouragement and peace to millions. New episodes drop every Thursday! Listen today on LifeAudio.com or wherever you find your podcasts.
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