Suffering Has an End Date

 

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 1:6-7 ESV).

 

The truth that all my suffering has an end date has been an incredible encouragement to me through the years. There have been those moments when the weight of circumstance seemed heavier; and, inevitably, a sense of dread and defeat would threaten my typically half-full personality. Many of us have faced those moments in life when we cannot seem to see a way out. It is then that we are convinced we cannot tolerate the pain any longer. I have great news… our pain has an end date!

 

I read a quote from Warren Wiersbe, who wrote, “When God puts his own people into the furnace, he keeps his eye on the clock and his hand on the thermostat. He knows how long and how much.” God knows how long and how much. Those words brought can bring us indescribable relief. He knew how intense the furnace was, and he knew when relief would come. The furnace wouldn’t be hotter or longer than was necessary.

 

After all, his grace surrounds us even now, even as we suffer. Look for the blessing. Look for God’s hand. Look for his comfort. They are all there. We can be certain that even when we’re overwhelmed and crying out for relief, God has something wonderful in store for us. He will not leave us desolate in our suffering — ever. He brings new mercies every morning (cf. Lamentations 3:22–23). We may not know what the day will bring, but we do know that it will bring God’s comfort and presence. It is His promise.

 

So, if you are feeling overwhelmed by your suffering, crying out to God, “How long, O Lord?” be assured that he knows exactly how long. He will not let you suffer one minute beyond what is necessary for His good to be produced in your life (cf. Romans 8:28). God is never cruel. God’s grace will give you everything you need to endure it, as well as perfectly timed blessings in your endurance. You may not know when your pain will end, but you can be assured that the end has already been appointed, and the result will always be for your good.