The Weight of Christian Suffering
Romans 8:18
Are you familiar with the notion that our present life is often one of suffering?
That, because of the Spirit within us, our Spirit’s calling out to God, we find ourselves repeatedly telling our old master, the flesh, “no” over and over again? It’s a concept that plays out in myriad ways in our daily lives.
Think about this captivating example that might catch some in Western culture by surprise — the story of Howard E. Butt Jr., affectionately known as “Buddy.”
Buddy was the eldest son of Howard E. Butt Sr., the visionary behind the H-E-B supermarket chain, a colossal grocery store presence in the United States. Born into immense wealth and influence, Buddy seemed destined to inherit the family business.
But here’s where the story takes a twist. Despite the dazzling financial prospects and the weighty responsibilities associated with his family’s commercial empire, Buddy felt an unwavering calling towards ministry and Christian service.
In the late 1950s, he embarked on theological studies, ultimately becoming an ordained Presbyterian minister. He served as a pastor at the Presbyterian Church in La Jolla, California, for several years.
Now, in the eyes of the secular world, Buddy may have forfeited material wealth and success. Yet, to him, the paramount priority was putting Christ first.
Consider the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of souls who found their way to Christ through his preaching. However, I am sure he looked back and wondered what could have been, in terms of earthly wealth and prosperity.
Think also about teenagers navigating the tumultuous years of high school while remaining steady in their Christian faith. Many of them could undoubtedly achieve great popularity among their peers if they were to abandon their beliefs. Instead, they endure isolation and sometimes even bullying.
The concept of being “heirs with Christ” emerges in this context — those who suffer alongside Him are the ones destined for glory.
Paul reminds us of this truth when he writes, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).
When we compare the trials and tribulations of today on this earth, they pale in comparison to the glory that awaits. Paul goes so far as to say that the two are not even worth comparing.
Here’s the beauty I’ve discovered in the words of the Bible — every word counts. The glory we anticipate isn’t merely a place we go to; it becomes our very condition. We will attain such moral perfection and beauty that the thought of it would astonish us today if we fully grasped its reality.
So, for all those who strive to lead a Godly life today, suffering is an inevitable part of the journey — it’s a promise from God Himself. However, let’s not forget that this suffering is not everlasting. What a glorious day that will be when the suffering gives way to an eternity of unimaginable glory.
Pastor Rich is a dedicated minister and experienced business owner. I received my Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Spurgeon College. With over eight years of experience in the ministry, I currently serve as the Outreach and Evangelism Pastor at First Baptist Church Springfield, MO.
Pain and suffering have come into your life, but remember pain, sorrow, suffering are but the kiss of Jesus – a sign that you have come so close to Him that He can kiss you. ( Mother Teresa)
Your Friend -His Servant,
Isaac Otieno