Christ’s Sufferings and Our Consolation

We will hve both affliction and consolation during our walk with God.

Christ suffered for us. He endured persecution, and ultimately lay down His life on the cross for our sins. Because He was willing to do so, we can find consolation in Him. Knowing that the perfect sacrifice was made that can remove our sins. Our consolation is that we have the right to be reconciled to God.

Paul told the Corinthians, “For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation (2 Corinthians 1:5-7).”

As Christians, we partake in the sufferings of Christ! Paul told Timothy that all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Timothy 3:12). When we endure suffering, Christ shares in that with us. Thus Christ is consoled when we are able to endure it. He rejoices when one remains faithful to Him, and will reward him accordingly.

We will be both afflicted and comforted during our walk with God. Paul says that this is for our consolation and salvation! Knowing what Christ went through for us, and what we must go through for Him, should encourage us to continue to live faithfully. If we remain faithful until death, we will receive the crown of life (Revelation 2:10).