Dear Praying Friends,
Rachel and I appreciate your support in prayer for revival and for our prodigals. Paul said, “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). What we are doing is good. Don’t give up!
The words of the Lord to the church in Smyrna are most comforting. He states that He is the first and the last, the One who died and is alive. He knows the beginning of things and He also knows the outcome.
He understands the reality of human suffering, even to the point of death, yet He lives. His words of comfort to the suffering church are: “I know your tribulation” (Revelation 2:9). This reminds us of his complete knowledge and full understanding.
Are you suffering? Your God is aware of every detail of your pain. What’s more, He cares!
I do not profess to know a lot about suffering, but I have lived with it and witnessed my wife’s back illness for many years, and have learned some of the issues related to suffering. The limitations it brings. The added stress. The tension.
The hope and then the disappointments of failed results. The anxiety and fear of not knowing when or how it will strike again. The discouragement and frustration that results from inability to perform some of the most basic of tasks.
The lonely hours. The missing out on functions and fellowship. The misunderstanding and sometimes judgmental, thoughtless words of those who have never gone down that road. And along with all of this, the actual physical pain can be at times unbearable.
Each of you has your own story of pain to tell: whether it is physical, emotional, mental, social, relational, or otherwise. It is real! Be comforted by these words of the risen Jesus, “I know your tribulation.” He understands and is with you through it all.
Thanks again for praying,
Bryan and Rachel