When my wife was diagnosed with cancer last year, there was the initial tears and shock. When we were collected again, we had a talk. 

We know the enemy uses cancer to strike fear into hearts. We determined we would not give into the temptation to fear. We took a stand on the from the start.

We also reminded ourselves that this, like all else in our lives, was for the sake of others. 

What do I mean by saying “this is for the sake of others?”  Let me explain. 

I have written extensively that, as paradoxically as it may be, our Father grows us in his love amidst suffering.  He does not always cause our pain, but he always redeems it for good.

This is foundational to navigating life: our God is good, kind and always towards us. True to his character and posture he is always up to good in our life. As Joseph said in so many words, “What others (or a fallen world in general) meant for evil, God has used for good.”

Psalm 69 reminds us there is another significant purpose for our trials. In a word, it is for others. 

Psalm 69 is about one who is suffering at the hands of others. The Psalter is arguing that he has done nothing deserving of such treatment. Even if he did do something wrong, the evil inflicted upon him is way disproportionate. 

Much of this Psalm is Messianic. In other words, it is prophetic of Jesus. We know that Jesus’ suffering was not due to his own wrongdoing. His suffering was on behalf of others. 

Both Psalm 69 and Jesus’ life opens up the reality that there are aspects of our suffering that are for the sake of others.

The Lord has made me aware that an aspect of my vocational fulfillment and expression is personal suffering. That is a biblical reality and there are many examples. Consider Paul’s calling in Acts 9:16, “I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” Consider the prophets, all suffered in their calling.

This suffering varies in degree. I will never suffer like Paul did in the fulfillment of his Apostolic ministry. Yet, I do suffer. And so do you.

Whatever pain you have experienced in your life has opened you up to be a recipient of God’s care and

mercy. Having been a recipient of that care and mercy you can now extend that same comfort to others. You can now enter into another’s sufferings in ways you never could before. This is what Paul instructs us in 2 Corinthians 1. 

What is pressing you in your life today? Be encouraged, God is toward you and up to good.  Ask the Spirit to strengthen you. Resist temptation to fear or resentful or whatever is taunting you. Lift your head and look outward. The pains you are suffering can and will be used by God to minister to others in profound ways. He takes what is hard and brings beauty. 

Thanks be to God.