Suffering Differently

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."
— Romans 5:3-4

How can one "glory" in their sufferings? Even when we recognize that suffering can produce a benefit to our lives, it doesn't stop suffering from being what it is: suffering.

So then, is Paul simply promoting positive thinking and a growth mindset here? Is he trying to promote positive thinking and give us the idea that if we can just find a way to be positive about our experiences that things will work out? "After all, we'll gain something from the situation" someone may say. Or, perhaps, is he getting at something more? What would allow for suffering in a human life to be something that can gloried in, something that James says to "count as joy"?

As believers, our experience of suffering and pain is not necessarily going to feel different from the way non-believers experience pain and suffering — at least not at first. There is a difference between what we have as believers and what others may lack as non-believers, however. We do not suffer like people who do not know God. We have an understanding of life that is rooted in the belief of the existence of an almighty God who cares about us to such an extent that He has chosen to enter into our pain and suffering.

Jesus took upon Himself the position of a perfect sacrificial offering so that we could be rescued from the ends of the pain and suffering that we've caused to others — and to God.

In this, we have been given the Spirit of God to equip, train, comfort and stengthen us for what lies ahead. Because this is our reality as believers, we do not need to respond to pain and suffering as the world would. The world will see much of it as meaningless, something to get through and then get on with life. As believers, we have a completely different perspective. To us, it's not meaningless. To us it's purpose filled. To us, the pain and suffering in our lives has passed through the hands of an almighty sovereign and all powerful God. To us, suffering has been strategically allowed into our lives, not just for a good reason, but for a fantastic reason. To us, even if we don't understand that reason, we understand the outcome of all pain and suffering: that being a more solidified character within ourselves, a greater closeness with God, and a deepened conviction of the truth that is found in Him. 

At first, our current circumstances might seem like every other experience of pain and suffering when we encounter them. They may feel overtly challenging and without cause. Suffering may feel like it's got no place in our lives to bring about anything good. But, that is why we are commanded to no longer be conformed to the image of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Through God's word our minds are renewed, and through His Spirit's power we are trained to see and approach all of life differently — including pain and suffering.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
— Romans 12:2