Romans: 8:16-18 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. 18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 1. Present Suffering: Paul acknowledges the reality of suffering in the Christian life. Earlier in Romans 8, he speaks about the challenges of living in a fallen world and the groaning of creation (Romans 8:22-23). This suffering can include persecution, trials, and the struggles of living for Christ in a sinful world. 2. Future Glory: Paul contrasts these sufferings with the "glory that will be revealed in us." This refers to the ultimate redemption and transformation believers will experience when Christ returns. It’s the hope of being fully united with God and transformed into His likeness. 3. Eternal Perspective: Paul encourages believers to adopt an eternal perspective. Though painful, the trials we endure now are temporary and pale compared to the eternal joy, the restoration, and the glory we will experience. God often uses suffering to prepare us, refine us, and position us for greater things. 1. Suffering as Preparation: Joseph, endured years of suffering before stepping into his role as Egypt's second-in-command. His suffering refined his character and prepared him for his future glory. 1. David: From Shepherd to King Suffering: David was anointed king as a young shepherd, but he didn’t step into his kingship immediately. Instead, he endured years of suffering, including being relentlessly pursued by King Saul, who wanted to kill him. David lived as a fugitive, hiding in caves and facing constant danger. Glory/Upgrade: Through this suffering, God shaped David into a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). The trials taught David dependence on God, humility, and trust. When he finally became king, he was not just a ruler but a shepherd-king, one who cared for God's people with wisdom and compassion. Here me, what is your trial teaching you, or better yet, what are you learning from your sufferings? They come to teach us something, I’m afraid that if we don’t learn the lesson we repeat the sufferings. Let us learn so that we can go to the next level and upgrade to better. Sometimes, God allows us to go through a "wilderness" season to refine us, grow our faith, and prepare us for greater responsibility and influence. You can influence people when you’ve been through something, not when you read about it. 2. Suffering as a Pathway to Glory: Jesus example. He endured the cross ("present suffering") for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). His resurrection brought glory not only to Himself but also to all who believe in Him.

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