Victory Through WeaknessSample

A Secure Victory

Most people would avoid suffering if they had a choice. Health and well-being are considered necessities for a good life. From this mindset arises the often-used cliché, “Well, at least you have your health.” This well-meaning sentiment is often intended to provide encouragement to those who have undergone a significant loss of material wealth. But is there any hope or encouragement for those with deteriorating health or physical disabilities? Yes! There is one to whom you can turn—Jesus Christ, who willingly took on your weakness and sorrows so that your victory would be secure.

The prophet Isaiah paints a picture of the Suffering Servant. Isaiah describes a man who chose to bear your afflictions on the cross—one who deliberately shared in your weakness and infirmities, who took on an unattractive appearance and was despised by men. This man welcomed sorrow and became acquainted with the deepest grief imaginable. And he did it for your sake.

What could possibly compel someone to voluntarily exchange a position of supreme authority and power for a life of sorrow and weakness? The answer is love. The love of God caused him to give his Son, Jesus Christ, as an offering for sin. It was the love of God that brought Jesus from his heavenly position to his lowly state on earth. The love of God is made manifest through Jesus Christ, the Suffering Servant.

This was all a part of God’s “good plan” (Isaiah 53:10) to welcome you into his family. The suffering of God’s only Son is called good for God’s sake and yours.

Whatever struggles you face today, know that you are not alone. Jesus, in love, put himself where you are. He was rejected and despised. He was considered unattractive and endured oppression. He never had children and was even rejected by members of his own family. Yet God redeemed the suffering of his Son, and he will redeem yours. Turn to Jesus today, the one who ensures that your victory is secure.

This devotional reading plan is from the Beyond Suffering Bible published by Tyndale House Publishers in partnership with Joni and Friends. Discover More.